ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins with an investigation of Henrietta Maria from the time of her arrival in England in 1625 to 1635. It explores the period 1642-1643 when the queen was at the very height of her political influence. During Henrietta's one-year visit to Europe she raised arms, money, and men for Charles which arrived in England to help the royalist cause. The book analyses Henrietta's changing role in the war effort. It covers the period from her reunion with Charles in July of 1643 and ends with her departure for France during the summer of 1644. The queen's presence at the royal court in Oxford was the cause of much discord and dissension among members of Charles's party. The book also examines the growing propaganda campaign to either defend or damn the queen.
