Royal Witches

Royal Witches examines the lives of Joan of Navarre, Eleanor Cobham, Jacquetta of Luxembourg and Elizabeth Woodville, four powerful women caught in the political struggles of medieval England. Their stories encompass royal marriage, dynastic rivalry, court influence and the precarious position of women close to power.

Gemma Hollman traces how allegations of witchcraft were deployed against these women, including Eleanor Cobham’s association with Margery Jourdemayne, known as the Witch of Eye. The book places these accusations within the beliefs and anxieties of the 15th century, showing how rumour, suspicion and political hostility could damage reputations and destroy influence. It also considers the women’s family connections and the later significance of their stories.