Join us for our Random History Book Discussion Group. This month’s title: The Lady Queen: The Notorious Reign of Joann I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem and Sicily by Nancy Gladstone.
On March 15, 1348, twenty-two-year-old Joanna I, Queen of Naples, stood trial for the murder of her husband before the Pope and his court in Avignon. Determined to defend herself, Joanna won her acquittal against overwhelming odds. Victorious, she returned to Naples and ruled over one of Europe's most prestigious courts for the next three decades -- until she herself was killed. Courageous and determined, Joanna was the only female monarch in her time to rule in her own name. She was widely admired: dedicated to the welfare of her subjects, she reduced crime, built hospitals and churches, and encouraged the licensing of female physicians. A procession of the most important artists and writers of the time frequented her glittering court. But she never quite escaped the stain of her husband's death, and the turmoil of the times surrounded her -- war, plague, and treachery would ultimately be her undoing. With skill, passion, and impeccable research and detail, Nancy Goldstone brings to life one of history's most remarkable women. The Lady Queen is a captivating portrait of medieval royalty in all its incandescent complexity.
Reserve a copy of the book while registering (we'll let you know when it's ready to be picked up), or come to the Central Adult Information Desk.
Questions? Email discussion leader Susan Gibberman at sgibberman@stdl.org.
You may choose to attend this program in person or from home via Zoom. Please indicate your preference when registering. After registering, you will receive a link to the Zoom webinar at least one hour in advance of the program.
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TAGS: | Book Discussions |
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