The Wars of the Roses were a period of violent and relentless conflict that divided England for over 30 years, from the mid-15th century to the early 16th century. The central battle was for the throne of England, with the House of Lancaster (Margaret’s faction) pitted against the House of York. As the wife of King Henry VI, Margaret of Anjou was
The History of Margaret of Anjou: The Queen of the “Wolf” Who Refused to Fade Quietly into the Background
Margaret of Anjou, a name that echoes through the annals of English history, is often remembered for her fiery temperament, strategic mind, and relentless determination. As a queen consort of King Henry VI of England, Margaret was no passive royal figure. Her story is one of political maneuvering, courage, and an unyielding will to protect her fami
Time in Daily Life: Work, Social Activities, and Rites of Passage
For most people in medieval Europe, telling time was not as important as it is today. The rhythm of the day was governed more by natural events, like the rising and setting of the sun, and by the religious calendar. For peasants, the division of the day was marked by activities like working the fields, eating meals, and going to church. The seasons
The Sundial: A Natural Timekeeper
Before the widespread use of mechanical clocks, one of the most common tools for telling time in the daytime was the sundial. A sundial works by casting a shadow from a stick (or gnomon) placed in the center of a circular base, with markings indicating the passage of hours. Sundials had been used since ancient times but remained common throughout t