Isabeau of Bavaria, born Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, was a significant figure in late medieval French history. Here is a detailed overview:
Isabeau was born on August 25, 1370, in Munich, the daughter of Duke Stephen III of Bavaria and Taddea Visconti. Her early life was marked by the political machinations of her family, which played a role in her future marriage.
On July 17, 1385, at the age of 15, she married Charles VI of France. This union was part of a diplomatic effort to secure peace between France and Bavaria. The marriage was celebrated with great pomp in Amiens, where Charles VI had prepared elaborate festivities.
Charles VI suffered from bouts of mental illness, known as "madness," which incapacitated him for significant periods. During these times, Isabeau played a crucial role in governing France:
Isabeau was deeply involved in the political conflicts of her time, especially the struggles between the Armagnacs and Burgundians:
After the death of Charles VI in 1422, Isabeau's influence waned: