Catherine of Braganza: the Merrie Monarch's forgotten queen
Jul 21, 2024
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Elinor Evans discusses her new biography on Catherine of Braganza, the forgotten queen consort of Charles II. They explore her political role in Portuguese independence, power struggles in the court, fertility challenges, feminist advocacy, and her diplomatic and cultural influence on future leaders.
Catherine of Braganza secured crucial Anglo-Portuguese alliances and influenced cultural exchanges.
Despite personal struggles, Catherine wielded political power and shaped diplomatic outcomes in challenging times.
Deep dives
Catherine of Braganza's Overlooked Legacy
Catherine of Braganza, though often overshadowed by mistresses in the court of Charles II, wielded immense power as a queen. Hailing from a time of immense political turmoil in Portugal, she pursued alliances and ultimately secured the Anglo-Portuguese alliance signified by the Methuen Treaty. Her influence extended to popularizing port wine and introducing tea to England, contributing significantly to cultural and diplomatic ties between the countries.
Catherine's Diplomatic Marriages and Political Savvy
Navigating a tumultuous political landscape, Catherine's marriage to Charles II marked the union of a Catholic queen with a Protestant king. Her role extended beyond the courtly intrigues, delving into international diplomacy by offering a substantial dowry and territories to secure alliances. Despite struggles with fertility and conspiracies surrounding her position, Catherine's political acumen and dedication to Portugal's independence shaped crucial diplomatic outcomes.
Catherine's Persona and Personal Struggles
Adapting to the lavish yet scandalous English court, Catherine's portrayal as a virtuous wife amidst Charles II's mistresses underscored her deliberate image of piety and simplicity. Her personal struggles with miscarriages and challenges in navigating Charles's infidelities revealed a woman of resilience and tact, maintaining a fragile balance of power and personal dignity within a tumultuous royal household.
Catherine's Return to Portugal and Legacy Beyond Obscurity
After Charles II's death and political upheavals in England, Catherine's return to Portugal saw her reign as Queen Regent, reshaping diplomatic ties and impacting Portugal's future through strategic alliances and fostering cultural exchange. While her reputation in the Anglosphere may have waned, her legacy as a diplomatic influencer, cultural bridge-builder, and advocate for women's empowerment endures in Portugal, embodying a queen of profound historical significance.
Picture Charles II's court and you'll probably imagine a riot of excess, filled with drinking, games, and of course, mistresses. The queen by Charles' side, Catherine of Braganza, is often obscured by this scandalous picture. Speaking to Elinor Evans, Sophie Shorland discusses her new biography detailing the life of the often overlooked consort – from her vital political role in the 17th-century Portuguese struggle for independence to the scandalous power games in the court of the 'Merrie Monarch'.