Offering a fascinating survey of European queenship from 1500-1800, each chapter of this ambitious yet accessible book discusses a well-known or archetypal queen across Western, Central and Eastern Europe, exploring the various forms and functions of queenship.

Offering a fascinating survey of European queenship from 1500-1800, with each chapter beginning with a discussion of the archetypal queens of Western, Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe, Charles Beem explores the particular nature of the regional forms and functions of queenship – including consorts, queens regnant, dowagers and female regents – while interrogating our understanding of the dynamic operations of queenship as a transnational phenomenon in European history. Incorporating detailed discussions of gender and material culture, this book encourages both instructors and student readers to engage in meaningful further research on queenship. This is an excellent overview of an exciting area of historical research and is the perfect companion for undergraduate and postgraduate students of History with an interest in queens and queenship.

"This engaging and approachable work provides an excellent introduction to the fascinating queens of early modern Europe and the key themes of queenship with a structure which provides a very useful focus on all of the major Continental regions." - Ellie Woodacre, University of Winchester, UK

"Beem’s book, written in lively and accessible prose, is essential reading for scholars of early modern history. He argues convincingly that queens, from the famous Elizabeth I of England to the less familiar Bona Sforza of Poland, are fundamental to understanding monarchical absolutism." - Theresa Earenfight, Seattle University, USA