Synopses & Reviews
Through the lives of the five women, all related, all called Euphemia, and one of them Queen of the Scots, Elizabeth Sutherland provides a unique insight into a popular period of Scottish history. While medieval battles are well recorded, there is little written about the important influence of the women behind the scenes. Through arranged marriages, profitable alliances were made, territory gained and bridges built. But the women--though technically the possessions of their menfolk--were far from passive creatures. There are accounts of bravery and love affairs, papal separations and religious devotion. It was a turbulent time in Scottish history, and this original book casts new light on the Scots' fierce fight for freedom.
Review
The clear, evocative style of writing in Five Euphemias, its narrative approach, and its engaging use of anecdote all contribute to the book's accessibility to general readers...
Scottish Tradition
About the Author
Elizabeth Sutherland lives in Scotland and is the author of articles and guidebooks on Highland life.
Table of Contents
Foreword * The First Euphemia * The Second Euphemia * The Third Euphemia * The Fourth Euphemia * The Fifth Euphemia * Afterword * Appendix I: Genealogical Tables * Earls of Ross * Kings of Man * Freskin the Fleming * The Bruce Succession * The Randolph Family and Dunbar Connection * The Steward Succession * The Leslie Family * The Lindsay Connection * Albany's Family * The Scottish Succession * The English Claim * Appendix II: Maps * The First Euphemia's World * The World of the Five Euphemias