Slavonic and East European Review

Abstract:

This article analyses the position of queens consort in the Polish-Lithuanian elective monarchy through an examination of the relationship between Louise Marie Gonzaga, queen of Poland-Lithuania (1645-48; 1649-67) and her second husband, King John Casimir (1648-68). It suggests that this relationship was far more complex than the traditional picture of a weak and subservient husband dominated by his forceful wife. It shows how Louise Marie was able to establish an important political role for herself, and argues that the royal marriage was far more of a political partnership than is usually suggested.