How many ladies in waiting did the queen have?
Throughout history, queens have been surrounded by a retinue of ladies in waiting, serving various roles from personal attendants to advisors. The number of ladies in waiting that a queen had varied depending on her personal preferences, the size of her court, and the demands of her reign. This article explores the different eras and queens, highlighting the varying numbers of ladies in waiting they had during their reigns.
Medieval Queens and the Number of Ladies in Waiting
In the medieval period, queens often had a significant number of ladies in waiting. For instance, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I of England, she is believed to have had around 30 ladies in waiting. These ladies were responsible for her personal care, including dressing, grooming, and attending to her needs. The number of ladies in waiting also reflected the queen’s wealth and power, as maintaining a large retinue was a symbol of status.
The Tudor Queens and Their Ladies in Waiting
The Tudor period, which spanned from the late 15th to the early 17th century, saw several notable queens. For example, when Queen Mary I of England ascended the throne, she had approximately 50 ladies in waiting. These ladies were a mix of English and foreign nobility, and their roles ranged from personal attendants to tutors for the queen’s children. The number of ladies in waiting during this era was substantial, reflecting the intricate political and social dynamics of the time.
The Hanoverian Queens and Their Ladies in Waiting
Moving into the 18th and 19th centuries, the Hanoverian queens, such as Queen Victoria, had a more modest number of ladies in waiting. Queen Victoria, for instance, had around 20 ladies in waiting, including her Lady-in-Waiting-in-Ordinary, who was her closest confidante. The number of ladies in waiting during this period was influenced by the queen’s desire for a more intimate and private court, as well as the changing social norms of the time.
Modern Queens and Their Ladies in Waiting
In the modern era, the number of ladies in waiting has continued to decline. Queen Elizabeth II, for example, had a smaller retinue of around 10 ladies in waiting. These ladies are primarily responsible for her personal care and attending to her official duties. The reduced number of ladies in waiting reflects the more streamlined and efficient operation of the royal court in the contemporary world.
Conclusion
The number of ladies in waiting that queens had throughout history has varied greatly, reflecting the changing needs and preferences of each monarch. From the numerous attendants of medieval queens to the more intimate retinues of modern times, the role of ladies in waiting has evolved alongside the royal courts they served. Understanding the number of ladies in waiting provides insight into the lives and reigns of these influential women and the intricate dynamics of their courts.
