Eleanor of Aquitaine

Definition

Eleanor of Aquitaine was a powerful and influential medieval queen, born in 1122, who became the Duchess of Aquitaine in her own right and later married both Louis VII of France and Henry II of England. Her marriages linked significant territories and shaped political alliances, making her a pivotal figure in the courtly love tradition, where her court became a center for the ideals of chivalry and romance during the 12th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eleanor was married to Louis VII at 15 but their marriage was annulled after 15 years due to political disagreements and lack of male heirs.
2. Her second marriage to Henry II united vast territories in France and England, significantly influencing the power dynamics of the time.
3. Eleanor played a vital role in supporting her sons during their rebellion against Henry II, showcasing her political acumen and influence.
4. She was a patron of the arts and literature, which flourished under her influence, leading to the promotion of courtly love ideals.
5. Eleanor's life exemplified the blending of politics and romance, as her relationships shaped not only her personal legacy but also the cultural landscape of medieval Europe.

Review Questions

• How did Eleanor of Aquitaine's marriages influence the political landscape of 12th-century Europe?
  • Eleanor's marriages had a profound impact on the political landscape of 12th-century Europe. Her first marriage to Louis VII of France initially strengthened French influence but ultimately led to conflict over territories. After her annulment, her marriage to Henry II of England united key regions in France and England, making her a significant player in shaping royal alliances. This dual connection allowed her to navigate complex political environments while promoting the ideals associated with courtly love.
• Discuss how Eleanor's role as a patron of the arts contributed to the development of courtly love during her time.
  • Eleanor's support for poets and artists helped cultivate a vibrant cultural scene that celebrated courtly love. By promoting troubadours and their works, she provided a platform for these ideals to flourish within the courts. This patronage not only elevated romantic themes in literature but also reinforced the importance of chivalric values that defined the behaviors expected in romantic pursuits. Eleanor's influence effectively blended artistic expression with social norms surrounding love and courtship.
• Evaluate Eleanor of Aquitaine's legacy in shaping both medieval politics and literature, particularly in relation to the courtly love tradition.
  • Eleanor's legacy is multi-faceted, impacting both medieval politics and literature significantly. Politically, she wielded substantial influence through her marriages, shaping alliances that affected territorial control across Europe. In literature, her role as a patron fostered an environment where the ideals of courtly love thrived. This intertwining of personal relationships and political strategy reflected a broader cultural phenomenon that defined medieval society, making Eleanor a key figure in both realms whose effects resonate through history.

Related terms

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary conception of love emphasizing nobility and chivalry, often idealized and unattainable.

Chivalry:

A code of conduct associated with the medieval institution of knighthood, emphasizing virtues like bravery, honor, and respect for women.

Troubadours: Medieval poets and musicians in southern France who composed songs about love, often focusing on themes inspired by courtly love.