ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines approaches taken in England over the longue duree to preserving stability while dynasties change—the patriline may change, but regulating the rights of women to pass on their claims to the throne preserved a sense of continuity. It looks at the transition between Portugal’s first and second royal dynasties in 1383–1385, in which the legitimate heir to the throne (a woman) was rejected and the traditional pathway of succession altered. The book also looks at the consolidation of the new Trastamara dynasty in the Kingdom of Aragon. It describes the case of the Vasa dynasty in Sweden, whose dual role, as kings of Poland, brought them greater influence but also internal divisions. The book discusses the manipulation of the public image of one Vasa prince by another, leading to a more specifically “Swedish” political culture.
