Inheritance of Power in Mercia by Princess Aelfwynn
Marta YEPIK
The period of the early Middle Ages is controversial among scholars, especially with regard to gender studies, which have intensified since late twentieth century. It believed that in women were restricted their rights and role a noble woman was limited strengthening alliance by contracting dynastic marriage. This case Carolingians, but end also known as beginning Viking’s Age, where treated honor respect, could rule odal while her husband absent, participate campaign. territories Britain 9–10 centuries constantly attacked Scandinavians, culminating establishment Danelag (area Danish law), so England at time on border two civilizations - Western European Scandinavian. Kingdom Mercia lost part its territory bordered Five Viking burgs, Wessex able maintain independence from Danes. Thus, Anglo-Saxon kingdoms common traditions, religion law, different patterns realm formed. In 911, who accompanied for long all his campaigns recognized ruler Mercia, question remains whether she hand over reins power daughter. main purpose article determine characteristics succession throne Anglo-Saxons analyze possibility recognizing this right example Mercian Princess Elfwynn. transition woman’s heir not typical Anglo-Saxons, aroused interest more thorough study issue. Based analysis comparison primary sources, well historiography, considers basic principles analyzes possible transfer heiress, taking into account recognition nobility. foreign policy processes influenced domestic and, result, reflected position ruling elite throne, are considered study. scientific paper provides deeper understanding status political arena society determining level involvement government kingdom.
Вісник Львівського університету Серія історична / Visnyk of the Lviv University Historical Series