Romance and drama – the Queen’s Court and the Queen’s ladies

About Romance and drama – the Queen’s Court and the Queen’s ladies

The talk

During the English Civil War, the court of Charles the first moved to Oxford, along with his army. His Queen Henrietta Maria joined him there, bringing with her all her court ladies, some of whom were young girls who had been sent to court to find suitable husbands.

Two of them – Margaret Lucas and Ann Harrison – became enmeshed in thrilling romances in the heart of the unreal pasteboard court in exile. Surrounded by siege lines, living in an army garrison town, they retained their courage and nerve, on the Queen’s stage and off it. Learn about their runaway romances.

The talk will be live-streamed on CrowdCast. After you have registered you will receive an invitation to the event 48 hours before the talk begins.
All profits from this talk will go towards the important work the Museum of Oxford carries out with local older residents as part of the ‘Library of you’ campaign.

The speaker

Diane Purkiss is Fellow and Tutor of English at Keble College, Oxford. She specialises in Renaissance and women’s literature, witchcraft and the English Civil War.

“Diane’s talks are always animated and exciting with a wealth of information. She always brings the subject to life!” David, Museum Development Officer at the Museum of OxfordLibrary of you

Library of you

This talk is the first in a series promoting the ‘Library of you’ fundraising campaign in the run up to the new Museum of Oxford opening.

Every year the Museum of Oxford works with older people in the city at events, at care homes and in hospitals to discuss and share their stories of the city.

The process of reminiscence has been proven to help connect people, reduce symptoms of depression, promote physical health, reduce stress and enhance self-esteem.

Their stories are in danger of being lost forever making this work key to the preservation of Oxford’s history. Give today to help continue this work with Oxford’s older people.

Your story

Every person has their own story. By donating to the ‘Library of you’, you can create your own story title to go on one of the book spines and ensure that we can continue to work with Oxford residents and share their stories.

More information about the ‘Library of you’ coming soon.