The relationship between a royal consort and a reigning monarch can be complicated. While consorts of British monarchs have no constitutional status or power, many have had significant political influence and supported the sovereign in his or her duties. Historian Carol Ann Lloyd will provide an in-depth exploration of some of Britain’s most legendary royal couples, focusing on the dramatic challenges they faced in balancing their marriages with their singular roles as rulers. In the 12th century, the relationship between Eleanor of Aquitaine, Queen Consort, and King Henry II was notably turbulent. Their relationship was marked by Eleanor’s attempts to undermine Henry’s reign, and his subsequent retaliation imprisoning his wife. During the mid-15th century, Marguerite of Anjou’s efforts to secure the reign of Henry VI led her to become one of the most despised royal consorts in history. Some foreign-born consorts did not try to assimilate into English society after their marriage, causing devastating political consequences. For example, during the 17th century, Queen Henrietta Maria’s lifestyle choices led to the trial and execution of her husband, King Charles I. Behind the scenes, some consorts were either forced to act as the de facto British ruler, such as Queen Charlotte during George III’s unsteady reign, while others were literally locked out by their King husbands, such as Queen Caroline and George IV. In her lecture, Ms. Lloyd will also highlight the male consorts who had to navigate the dual role of husband while they were subject to their reigning queen wives. For example, Prince Albert could never become King consort, as his gender would have led him to outrank his wife, Queen Victoria. Finally, Ms. Lloyd will discuss the influence of more modern consorts (or would have been consorts), including the significant impact of Wallis Simpson on King Edward VIII’s reign, as well as the complex situation that Prince Philip created for Queen Elizabeth II.

Carol Ann Lloyd, Historian and Lecturer

Carol Ann Lloyd is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library, where she gave workshops and tours about Shakespeare and Early Modern England. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian, Folger Shakespeare Library, Agecroft Hall, and TEDx, among other venues. Ms. Lloyd is a member of the National Speakers Association.

Tickets: $20 members*; $30 non-members

*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account