Philippa of Hainault

Philippa of Hainault is represented in the linked historical fiction through court politics and dynastic power, political ambition and government, and family, marriage and personal loyalty. These works approach the figure through the surrounding events, relationships and political conflicts rather than through a standalone biography.

In Anne O’Brien’s The King’s Concubine, Alice Perrers rises from obscure origins to enter the household of Queen Philippa of Hainault. In Anne O’Brien’s The Uncrowned Queen, in 1330, Philippa of Hainault is married to the young Edward III but remains politically and financially restricted while Isabella of France and Roger Mortimer dominate the government.