The Queens and Royal Women of Sweden, c. 970–1330

Review

by Kimberly Anne
published on 13 January 2025

As a new and unique study of Swedish royal women and queens from the Middle Ages, this book deserves recognition. Biographies of both well-known and lesser-known queens make it a valuable resource for students at colleges and universities as well as a new tool for professors and researchers. Students of history, women's studies, the Middle Ages, and social and cultural history will rediscover the true importance of Sweden's queens from an original perspective.

The Queens and Royal Women of Sweden, c. 970–1330: Their Lives, Power, and Legacy by Caroline Wilhelmsson is a compelling examination of the significant royal women in Sweden during the late Viking Age and early medieval period. This textbook uncovers the political power, stories, and struggles of queens in Scandinavian history. Queens of medieval Europe have long been a fascination. This book goes beyond the traditionally mentioned royal women of Europe and provides a new understanding of cultural contributions, painting a vivid portrait of the impact of Swedish queens throughout history.

As a groundbreaking first edition, this is a must-read for enthusiasts of medieval history and women's studies. The Queens and Royal Women of Sweden is tailored specifically for college and university students, instructors, and lifelong learners who are passionate about studies of the Middle Ages, European history, and women’s and gender studies.

Caroline Wilhelmsson is currently a postdoctoral researcher at University College Cork. With her book, she uncovers stories of women who have often been overlooked or misrepresented in traditional masculine historical narratives. In addition, while many works dedicated to medieval queenship concentrate on England or France, Wilhelmsson's focus on Sweden provides a refreshing and much-needed perspective, making this book a must-have for scholars in this area of interest. This book stands out also due to its various maps, family trees, and a comprehensive list of kings, their queens, and royal women. There are several images and artworks portraying some of Sweden's earliest queens as well.

This monograph is unique and is the first of its kind. It includes new perspectives on the historical context of royal women in European history. As part of the Lives of Royal Women academic series by Routledge, this detailed compilation of biographies of Sweden's early royal ladies allows readers to explore their positions, power, influence, and contributions to diplomacy, governance, and cultural advancement in medieval Scandinavia.

The book follows a thematic structure and chapters that explore key aspects of queenship, including the politics and dynamics of ruling, the roles of women in royal courts, and the influence of religion and culture. Wilhelmsson examines artifacts, written records, and architectural evidence to build a vivid picture of medieval queenship. Her focus on these women's lives and historical relevance, as well as including both famous and lesser-known queens, makes the book insightful and moving. The text also delves into ancient royal dynasties and the complex interplay between Christianity and paganism, offering a rich analysis of how these belief systems shaped queenship and royal authority.

The primary focus is on the varied and multifaceted roles of royal women. Wilhelmsson highlights how some women, such as Gunnhild of Sweden, Rikissa (Richeza) of Poland, Gunnhild of Denmark, Margareta Fredkulla, and Ragnhild of Talje, navigated the balance between pagan traditions and the growing influence of Christianity. These queens frequently functioned as political leaders and influencers in their own right, serving as bridges between the cultural and religious worlds. The book also delves into the intriguing concept of women being referred to as monarchs rather than queens, underscoring their ability to wield independent political power within a patriarchal framework.

Wilhelmsson maps the intricate web of relationships between Sweden and other European countries, shedding light on marital alliances and trade in particular. Sigrid Storrada, a queen of Slavic descent whose story illustrates how cross-cultural contacts shaped the royal courts of Sweden and beyond, is a prime example of this. The biographies of these powerful women, who often crossed borders and countries, provide an in-depth look at how trade routes and political marriages fostered exchanges that enriched royal courts and governance, leaving lasting legacies on both sides of Europe.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book brings to life the stories of medieval royal women who ruled Swedish lands and their enduring impact on history. Wilhelmsson’s dedication to uncovering these narratives is a service to scholarship and society, providing an essential resource for anyone interested in European history, gender roles, and the medieval world. This book educates and inspires, underscoring the importance of preserving and studying the legacies of women whose contributions have too often been overlooked. Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of medieval queenship and the intricate tapestry of European history should delight in this recommended textbook.

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