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IMC 2005: Sessions

Session 607: Women as Political Actors

Tuesday 12 July 2005, 11.15-12.45

Moderator/Chair:Kimberly A. LoPrete, Department of History, National University of Ireland, Galway
Paper 607-aAn Affair to Remember: Joan of England and William de Braose
(Language: English)
Danna R. Messer, Independent Scholar, York
Index terms: Politics and Diplomacy, Women's Studies
Paper 607-bThe Invisible Regent: Adelaide del Vasto, Countess of Sicily
(Language: English)
Caroline Mackenzie, Groupe de recherches Femmes-Méditerranée, Aix-Marseille Université
Index terms: Gender Studies, Women's Studies
Paper 607-cWomen as Political Actors: A Response
(Language: English)
Kimberly A. LoPrete, Department of History, National University of Ireland, Galway
Abstract

Abstract -a:
This is an investigation of the infamous ‘affair' between Joan of England and William de Braose based on events leading up to and following Llywelyn ap Iorwerth's discovery of their relationship. I will consider Joan's direct involvement in this notorious scandal by examining her significance as a political 'pawn' contextualised within 13th-century Anglo-Welsh relations. In order to explore the possible reasons behind her banishment and subsequent reinstatement, I will look at her position within Llywelyn's court before and after events. I will also discuss how her reputation has ultimately been affected, both during her lifetime and after, based on the political partiality of contemporary sources and the evaluations of previous historians.
Abstract -b:
Contemporary historians of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily barely mention the women behind the Hauteville rulers. Of Adelaide del Vasto, widow of Roger I and mother of Roger II, little is recorded, yet the transformation of Sicily from an Arabian colony into a rich and powerful base for the future Norman kingdom began during her regency. An examination of texts and modern histories can provide information on her contribution to the creation of the Kingdom of Sicily.
Abstract c to
No abstract provided