What was the role of women during the Wars of the Roses?

During the Wars of the Roses, women primarily played supportive roles, but some, like Margaret of Anjou and Elizabeth Woodville, held significant political influence.

The Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars for the throne of England, took place from 1455 to 1487. During this period, the societal norms dictated that women were largely confined to domestic roles. However, the tumultuous nature of the wars often thrust women into positions of power and influence, either through their familial connections or through their own strategic manoeuvring.

Margaret of Anjou, wife of King Henry VI, is a prime example of a woman who wielded significant power during the Wars of the Roses. With her husband's mental health deteriorating, Margaret effectively took control of his political duties. She led the Lancastrian faction in the wars and was a key player in many of the political machinations of the time. Her leadership, however, was often criticised and used as a propaganda tool by the Yorkists, who portrayed her as a ruthless, power-hungry woman overstepping her gender role.

Elizabeth Woodville, wife of Edward IV, also held considerable influence. She was known for her beauty and charm, which she used to secure her family's position at court. Elizabeth's marriage to Edward IV was a controversial one, as she was a commoner and a widow. However, she used her position as queen to advance the interests of her family, the Woodvilles, leading to their rise in power and wealth. Her political manoeuvring was a significant factor in the tensions that fuelled the Wars of the Roses.

Other women, like Cecily Neville, Duchess of York, and Anne Neville, played more subtle roles. They were often used as pawns in political marriages designed to secure alliances and strengthen claims to the throne. However, they also used their positions to influence events behind the scenes, often acting as mediators and negotiators.

In conclusion, while women during the Wars of the Roses were primarily confined to supportive roles due to societal norms, some managed to wield significant political influence. They navigated the turbulent political landscape of the time, often using their familial connections and strategic manoeuvring to secure power and influence. Their roles, while often overlooked, were crucial in shaping the course of the Wars of the Roses.