Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society The Scandalous Royal Mistress Who Ruled France
Oct 3, 2025
Historian Estelle Paranque joins the discussion to unravel the scandalous love triangle of 16th-century France, featuring King Henry II, his wife Catherine de' Medici, and his mistress Diane de Poitiers. Estelle shares insights on Diane's remarkable influence and controversial power dynamics within the royal court. They explore the nature of Diane and Henry's relationship, rumors of intimacy with Catherine, and the fall from grace following Henry's death. Estelle also highlights Catherine's clever political maneuvers and legacy—challenging historical misconceptions along the way.
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Catherine's Origins Shaped Her Power
- Catherine de' Medici arrived at court as a political pawn with Medici pedigree and youth, which made her marriage valuable to Francis I.
- Her early life as an orphan and dynastic usefulness shaped her later political ambition and resilience.
Tutor Turned Mistress
- Diane de Poitiers was appointed as Henry's tutor and swiftly became his lover despite being about twenty years older than him.
- Her charisma, intelligence and widow status let her convert a court position into intimate influence over the teenage prince.
Beauty Plus Brains Bought Influence
- Diane's hold on Henry combined beauty with political skill, charisma and the material independence of a wealthy widow.
- That mix made her more than a sexual companion: she became a central powerbroker at court.
