Ep 2. Isabella and Margaret

Isabella and Margaret are the focus of the second episode of She-Wolves: England's Early Queens. Isabella of France was the wife of Edward II, who famously met his demise at the hands of his own people. Margaret of Anjou was the wife of Henry VI, and played a pivotal role in the Wars of the Roses.

Isabella was a controversial queen. Married to Edward II, she was renowned for her beauty and intellect, but was not popular with the English people. Many blamed her for the downfall of her husband, whom she is said to have cuckolded with the Roger Mortimer, 1st Earl of March, whom she went on to marry. In this episode, we learn about Isabella's early life in France, her arranged marriage to Edward II, and the events that led to her husband's fall from grace. We also see how she used her influence to help secure the throne for her son, Edward III.

Margaret of Anjou, on the other hand, was a queen who fought fiercely for her husband and son's right to the throne. Married to Henry VI, she was a powerful force during the Wars of the Roses, a series of battles fought between the House of Lancaster and the House of York for control of the English crown. Although ultimately unsuccessful in her quest, Margaret was a strong and determined leader who refused to be intimidated by her enemies. In this episode, we learn how Margaret became queen, her attempts to broker peace between the rival factions, and her involvement in the famous Battle of Wakefield.

Throughout the episode, we see how Isabella and Margaret were both constrained by the limitations of their gender and the expectations of society at the time. They were expected to be subservient wives and mothers, yet both women showed a fierce independence and a willingness to fight for their rights. As queens, they held considerable power and influence, yet were often marginalized and dismissed by male advisors.

She-Wolves: England's Early Queens is a fascinating look at the lives of some of England's most influential queens, who have often been overlooked by historians. Isabella and Margaret are just two examples of the strong and determined women who helped shape England's history, and this episode provides a valuable insight into their lives and times.