The Monstrous Regiment of Women Across Time: Female Kingship in Early Modern England from Empress Matilda to Queen Elizabeth I

The queens of England are a popular topic, particularly in modern times. The public and academic interest has produced numerous articles, books, movies, and TV shows. None has received as much attention as Queen Elizabeth I, who ruled England from 1558 to 1603. Another lesser-known figure in English history is the twelfth-century contender for the throne, Empress Matilda. These two queens are the focus of the following examination of cultural reactions and contemporary understandings of female rulership. Examining the circumstances of these women and comparing them provides an interesting look into the gender politics of medieval and early modern England.  Texts produced by their contemporaries illustrate how opinions on female leadership changed and stayed the same. The challenges these women faced define how they were successful and were greatly influenced by their gender. They dealt with continual doubts about their ability and capacity to rule; were constantly defined by their relationships with men, particularly in marriage; and faced questions about their military leadership.