Eleanor Of Aquitaine Thesis

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Eleanor of Aquitaine History Thesis Paper Eleanor of Aquitaine was born into an esteemed French family from which she inherited the region of Aquitaine and became one of the most influential female figures in history (Eleanor of Aquitaine Marries Henry II). Through two marriages and many children, Eleanor of Aquitaine managed to become the queen of France as well as the queen of England; her complicated life and titles would later lead to centuries of war (Eleanor, Historic World leaders). Even with the struggles that accompanied womanhood in her day, Eleanor moved from one leading position to the next. The baffling amount of power, wealth, and land in possession of Eleanor of Aquitaine during her lifetime rivals that of the greatest nations …show more content…

Eleanor once again influenced her husband’s decision making. Louis VII agreed and decided to reconcile with the Church by going on a crusade to Jerusalem, which Eleanor decided to join him (The Great Crusades). On this crusade Eleanor met her beloved uncle, Prince Raymond. Eleanor spent a lot of time with Raymond, which caused rumor’s of a romantic relationship, and confessed her frustration with her marriage with him. Because of Raymond’s advice Eleanor refused to join Louis VII in returning to France, who left the crusade early because of those rumors of an affair. This was the beginning of the end for their marriage (Medieval Sourcebook, www.legacy.fordham.edu). Finally, in 1152, Louis VII and Eleanor of Aquitaine officially separated due to the lack of a male heir, as well as the drastic differences in their personalities (Eleanor of Aquitaine Marries Henry …show more content…

For the first time in very long, Eleanor of Aquitaine was defeated and lost power, a phenomenon which she was not used to. Though in the past Henry II and others held great respect for Eleanor, now, because of the revolt, they had lost hope in her and resented her actions (Peter of Blois: Letter 154 to Queen Eleanor, 1173). Even though she was taken prisoner after her loss, she still was surrounded by many luxuries. Eleanor was held at Salisbury Castle and never spent time in a real prison. She was allowed out on occasion to attend public ceremonies with Henry II and keep up her appearances (Eleanor, Historic World leaders). Though resentful, her light treatment after trying to take down her husband was due to her husband’s past love for her, a love that transcended a coup attempt. Once again, Eleanor’s charisma and personality saved

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