Throughout early modern history, women have played a vital yet often overlooked role in diplomacy and inter-state politics. Positioned between two dynasties, consorts especially had a unique...Show moreThroughout early modern history, women have played a vital yet often overlooked role in diplomacy and inter-state politics. Positioned between two dynasties, consorts especially had a unique capacity to influence international relations. This thesis examines the position of early modern consorts through a case study of Holy Roman Empress Eleonore Magdalene of Neuburg. By analyzing the correspondence with her father and eldest brother in her first thirteen years at the Viennese court of Emperor Leopold I, it assesses the evolution of her level of agency, loyalty to both her family of birth and family of marriage and what room she had to politically maneuver. The findings reveal a particularly strong development in her level of agency in this period, even before her children became influential factors in her position and influence.Show less
