Lady Godiva has always been that feminine emblem of bravery and social claim, as well as beauty or eroticism.The experts in classical history tell us that the myth of this woman « Ride »on the back of the real and the legend, and to find its origins, we have to go back almost to what an old troubadour of the 13th century, Roger de Wendower, told us about it.
Join us today in Lifestyle for this little historical, pictorial and social walk, to learn more about what was behind the beautiful wake of Lady Godiva.
Lady Godiva, the woman who defended the rights of the people
Who was our lady? What position did he have? What led her out naked on the back of a horse? Well, let's start from the beginning.We know she was a woman of Saxon origin, who about 1040, married a gentleman of good standing: Leofric, Earl of Chester , of Mencia and Lord of Coventry (England).
Her husband, although he was a man of faith and came to build the Coventry convent, seemed to focus his interests on the Church rather than on the town, which in the humble and needy people.Hence, he always established very high taxes, so excessive and inflexible, that there were many who were in dire need and even hunger.Very hungry.The situation was so unfortunate that his wife, Lady Godiva, asked for mercy.and a drop in those such abusive rates .
Do you know what the Earl of Chester answered? If he wanted me to fulfill his plea, he would dare first to ride a horse naked and walk when there were more people in the public square.
It is very possible that her husband would comment on this by way of mockery and not as a challenge.But this is what it really was for Lady Godiva, a challenge and an offense that I don't hesitate to pick up to put her own words to her husband's face.Yes, she had asked for it by way of mockery with He intended to embarrass her, but she would do it.It is at this point that, as the testimony of the troubadour Roger de Wendower, left us, the amazing thing happens.The inhabitants knew what the Earl of Chester had proposed to his wife and knowing the noble, close and supportive character of Lady Godiva, wanted to respect her.
So, the day that Leofric's wife left or naked and riding towards the square, none of those people looked at her.They all lowered their faces to show respect and not shame her, others simply entered the house and closed the windows.Meanwhile, Lady Godiva, rode Quiet, without clothes, with her long loose hair covering her breasts and very sure of what she was doing.
It is also said that there was a person who could not help looking at her: Peeping Tom (Tom el miron), a character already emblematic in British culture.
After that, Leofric based on the wishes of Lady Godiva and under taxes. Was it a Triumph for the female gender or maybe a way to humble yourself? It is not clear, as it is not clear the truth or not of this story, that the world of art and even cinema has used many times, but whatever it is, it is still interesting.
What is your opinion? If you liked this article, also discover the 6 most controversial paintings in history.
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