Matilda

Question 0

Medieval Attitude to Women

Answer 0

There was no concept of powerful females at the time.

This meant that Matilda had a very clear disadvantage over Stephen of Blois

Question 1

Marriage to Geoffrey of Anjou

Answer 1

The Angevins were sworn enemies of the Normans, therefore the people of Britian as well (Anglo-Normans)

Question 2

Lack of Millitary Strength

Answer 2

Matilda lacked any millitary infrastructure in England, castles, etc.

Her army was with her in Europe rather than split up between Europe and Britain

Question 3

Lack of Care for British People

Answer 3

She didn’t pay much interest in the British people so they were unsupportive of her claim

They chased her out of London in 1141

Question 4

Stephen of Blois

Answer 4

Her rival,

History of monetary exchange with Henry

Supported by the English

Arguably more interested in the throne

Question 5

Robert of Gloucester

Answer 5

He was her main ally in England,

Phew captured Stephen and said it was God’s will that said that Matilda should be in power

However when he died in 1147 this ended her claim to the throne as he was the only one that kept her support up in England