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"Women of Queen Eleanor's class were as likely to be educated as men"

Another good one is Isabella of Spain. She had much trouble with potential suitors, til Ferdinand came of age. Due to the situation, she became the sovereign, not he. Tho they were devoted to each other. Not bad for an arranged marriage!

"I have a daughter named Eleanor! "

My daughter is enthralled with that era! She wants to do her room in a 12th century theme, and is doing an "Eleanor" chemise and billaut for her sewing project (4-H) this summer. Maybe she will name one of her daughters Eleanor!

She reads a series of biographies (fiction based upon fact, in the form of a "diary" -- I think it is Scholastic Press). They tie the girls' adventures and romances to actual history. So they are worthwhile. When I read them to her, I emphasize what is historical and what is "author's license." If your daughter is young enough (pre-teen, teen) she is bound to enjoy them!

I've read some of those books ... "Royal Diaries," I think. My Josephine (13) is too old for them. Eleanor (6) has just started reading, so she'll be able to read them all in a few years. She plans to be a princess when she grows up ... I'll have to make her some gowns! I was 12th Century (reign of Henry I) when we did medieval reenactment years ago; easy sewing!

The literacy topic reminds me of a story about Paul Kruger, the president of Dutch South Africa. He could read (sorta) but his wife and children could not; not much to read out there in the veld, unless you were the President. When Kruger had to sign government documents, his wife would call (in Afrikaans), "Children, come here and be quiet ... Papa is going to sign his name!" and they would all gather around and watch.