Empress Matilda part 15: Matilda vs. Mathilda

The transcript details Empress Matilda's struggle to claim the English crown during the 12th century. Despite her efforts and military campaigns, she faced significant challenges due to gender biases and political betrayals. Her husband Geoffrey's successes in Normandy complicated the situation further. Matilda's eventual escape from a siege at Oxford marked the end of her direct ambitions for the crown, but she shifted her focus to securing her son Henry's future as a potential king.

What was the primary difference in the motivations of Empress Matilda and Matilda of Boulogne?

• Empress Matilda acted for her husband, while Matilda of Boulogne sought power for herself.

• Empress Matilda sought power for herself, while Matilda of Boulogne acted for her husband.

• Both acted on behalf of their husbands.

• Both sought power for themselves.

What was the outcome of the exchange between Robert of Gloucester and Stephen?

• Stephen gained control of Normandy.

• Empress Matilda was crowned queen.

• A stalemate resumed in England.

• Robert of Gloucester was executed.

What strategic move did Geoffrey make while Matilda and Stephen were engaged in battles in England?

• He formed an alliance with France.

• He secured control over Normandy.

• He invaded Scotland.

• He captured London.

How did Empress Matilda manage to escape from the besieged castle at Oxford?

• She bribed the guards to let her go.

• She was rescued by a large army.

• She used a secret underground tunnel.

• She slipped out during a snowstorm.

What was the significance of Henry of Anjou's presence in England?

• He was crowned king immediately.

• He represented a future male heir to the throne.

• He led a successful military campaign.

• He negotiated peace between Matilda and Stephen.

Why was Empress Matilda's gender a barrier to her claim to the English throne?

• She lacked military support.

• She was not of royal blood.

• Her husband opposed her claim.

• Nobles were unwilling to accept a female ruler.

What decision did Matilda make regarding her son's future?

• She sent him to France for safety.

• She decided to abdicate in his favor.

• She disinherited him.

• She supported his claim to the throne.