Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most famous women in European history, has a troubled marriage to King Louis. Later, she is imprisoned by her husband Henry II and refuses to give up her land and power. The podcast explores power struggles, rebellions, and Eleanor's eventual release from imprisonment.
Eleanor of Aquitaine outwits kidnapping attempts and asserts her power in her duchy.
Henry II imprisons Eleanor to prevent her from rallying support, but she is eventually freed by her son Richard the Lionheart.
Deep dives
Elnor Vaquatane's Dangerous Journey
Elnor Vaquatane, newly single and in possession of vast wealth and power, faces peril as nobleman plot to kidnap and marry her for her fortune. She outwits two kidnapping attempts and sends a messenger to her future husband, Duke of Normandy, for protection.
Elnor's Marriage to Henry II
Elnor marries Henry II, who becomes King of England, but their marriage quickly deteriorates. Elnor's popularity and Henry's fondness for a mistress strain their relationship. Eleanor moves her court to Poitier, asserting her power in her own duchy.
Henry's Troublesome Sons
Henry and Eleanor's sons rebel against their father, joining forces with King Louis of France. The young king, Richard, Geoffrey, and even John turn against Henry. The conflicts lead to battles, negotiations, and eventual forgiveness from Henry.
Eleanor's Imprisonment and Freedom
Henry imprisons Eleanor to prevent her from rallying support in her duchies. She endures years of isolation and meager treatments. Eleanor is eventually freed after Henry's death by her favorite son, Richard the Lionheart, who ascends to the throne.
Eleanor of Aquitaine is one of the most famous women in European history for good reason. After annulling her marriage from the King of France, she would marry the man who would become Henry II, King of England. But that marriage would sour, and in the end, Eleanor would turn against him.