ABSTRACT
The period 1644-49 was one of immense hardship and heartbreak for Henrietta Maria. From France, the zealously determined queen continued her crusade to champion the royalist cause; however, in the end, she met with nothing but disappointment and rejection. This chapter investigates Henrietta as a catalyst of public condemnation. It explores the political impact the queen's meddling had on contemporary perceptions of the court and Charles. The New Year had not brought peace to the Continent as Henrietta had hoped, so France was still in no financial position to help the exiled queen or her imprisoned king. The chapter explores the period of Henrietta's denouement. While Henrietta Maria never relented in her efforts to raise money and military supplies, and negotiate alliances on Charles's behalf, external factors continuously hampered her endeavours. With its discussion of popular perceptions of the queen and king, the chapter explores the political impact of Henrietta's meddling.
