6 May 2026 (past event)
- 19:30 to 20:30
Talk
Cecily Duchess of York: Kings' Mother and Politician
Historian Joanna Laynesmith explores the life of Cecily, Duchess of York, one of the major players of the Wars of the Roses.
- Date
- 6 May 2026
- Location
- Online
About this image
Bibliothèque nationale de France, Jeanne Beaufort et ses filles en prière Heures de Neville. - Paris
One of the few persons to live through the Wars of the Roses, Cecily was the mother of two Yorkist kings, Edward IV and Richard III and her influence was sought by all.
Yet who was the real Cecily? Contemporary propaganda and the romantic speculations of early modern writers have created conflicting traditions around her with some accusing her of committing adultery and displaying reckless extravagance, and others dubbing her ‘Proud Cis’ and living the life of a nun.
Join Joanna Laynesmith as she strips away the myths to reveal Cecily’s real role and the priorities and ambitions she had for her family.
Event details
- Date
- 6 May 2026, 19:30 to 20:30
- Price
-
Free to £15
Pay what you can
- Location
- Online, Live-streamed on Vimeo
- Part of series
- 15th century: houses at war
This event has sold out.
Dates for this event
How to join online
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Watch after the event
This talk will be available to watch after the event, using the same link you will receive to join it live. It will remain available for a limited period of 48 hours after the event has finished, unless otherwise stated.
Speakers
Series
15th century: houses at war
Discover the story of the 15th century.