Queenship, Dynasty, and Exile: Mary Beatrice of Modena and Political Agency

Abstract

This dissertation examines Mary Beatrice of Modena (1658-1718), queen consort to James II of England, Scotland, and Ireland (1633-1701) and her cultural and political agency during her tenure as duchess of York and queen consort, and during her thirty-year exile in France. As such, it identifies how Mary Beatrice employed established practices of queenship when in exile despite the challenging circumstances of being a monarch without a country. It contributes to correcting the historical narrative that overlooks female royal political activity both with and without a country, and female agency in general. Mary Beatrice was actively engaged in political activities to advance both her natal and married dynasties as well as to assist her fellow exiles, especially through letters. She advanced her natal Este dynasty by successfully negotiating a cardinal’s appointment for her uncle. She worked tirelessly to secure placements and pensions for the subjects that followed her into exile after 1688. Additionally, she used all the influence at her disposal to work toward the successful restoration of her husband and son to the British crown. Mary Beatrice’s letter-writing campaigns, using the language of political friendship, enabled her to remain informed about international movements that might affect her cause and influence their outcomes or effects on the people who followed her into exile. While her political agency has been obscured and ignored until now, this dissertation aims to revise the historical narrative to include the significant political agency Mary Beatrice performed in her lifetime.