Empress Matilda part 5: Unmarried Heir to the Throne

Matilda, a 23-year-old widow, returns to Normandy after rejecting German marriage offers. Her father, Henry I, names her heir to the English throne, a groundbreaking decision in a patriarchal society. Despite support from nobles, Matilda faces challenges as a female ruler, unable to fulfill traditional kingly duties like leading armies and judging disputes. The transcript explores the complexities of female power in Anglo-Norman England and the societal barriers Matilda encountered.

What were Matilda's options after returning to Normandy?

• Claim the German throne

• Start a business

• Travel to the Holy Land

• Become a nun or remarry

Why was Henry I's decision to name Matilda as heir significant?

• He had no other children

• He wanted to appease the church

• He wanted to unite England and Germany

• It was the first time a woman was named heir in English history

Who was one of Matilda's greatest supporters?

• Robert Earl of Gloucester

• Stephen of Boulogne

• William of Malmesbury

• David the 1st

What was the main reason the nobles supported Matilda's claim?

• Her legitimacy as the King's daughter

• Her military prowess

• Her wealth

• Her popularity among the people

What was one of the main duties of a king that Matilda struggled with?

• Writing laws

• Managing finances

• Leading an army

• Hosting banquets

Why was the idea of a female king not considered in Matilda's time?

• Society had set roles for men and women

• Women were not educated

• The church forbade it

• There were no female rulers in history

What did the title 'Queen' originally mean in Anglo-Saxon?

• The King's wife

• A female ruler

• A noblewoman

• A warrior