QUEEN MARGARET OF SCOTLAND

"A familiar and well-loved figure, Queen Margaret of Scotland occupies a place somewhere between legend and history. Over the nine centuries since her death truth, faith and fantasy have combined to create a myth held dear by generations of Scots, a myth that has inspired art, literature and the dedication of countless churches, institutions and schools." "The stained glass window from St. Margaret's Chapel in Edinburgh Castle typically depicts her as a saintly young woman who yearned to be a nun, but whose destiny was to become a queen. This and other such idealised representations have served to make Margaret into an icon, yet how did this medieval queen, canonised in 1249, create such a lasting impression?" "It is clear that Margaret was an exceptional, indeed heroic, individual. Her compassion, energy and commitment to the relief of suffering in the midst of extreme political and social upheaval are traits that still speak eloquently to today's troubled world. Perhaps this explains, in part, why Margaret remains an inspirational figure after so many years." "Looking at ancient sources and modern scholarship afresh, this book pieces together the life of Queen Margaret of Scotland, the truth behind the legend, and the turbulent period of history in which she lived."--BOOK JACKET.