She-Wolves: England’s Early Queens
In this series, historian Helen Castor explores seven queens who challenged male power, the fierce reactions they provoked, and whether the term 'She-Wolves' was deserved. Based on her critically acclaimed book 'She-Wolves'.
Matilda and Eleanor
The first woman to attempt to claim the English throne, Matilda--daughter of Henry I, granddaughter of William the Conqueror--was hours from her coronation in 1141 when an angry mob chased her away.
Isabella and Margaret
Isabella and Margaret were both young French girls and political pawns when they were married to English kings. Shakespeare later dubbed Margaret "She-wolf of France."
Jane, Mary and Elizabeth
In 1553, the death of a 15-year-old boy caused an unprecedented political crisis. For the first time in English history, all the contender for his crown were female: Lady Jane Grey, the staunchly Catholic Mary Tudor, and Elizabeth I.
