Born: 11th century BC
Biography:
Gwendolen, also known as Gwendolin or Gwendolyn, was a legendary ruler of ancient Britain, said to have reigned during the 11th century BC. According to the historical account Historia Regum Britanniae by Geoffrey of Monmouth, Gwendolen’s story is one of triumph and leadership. She began her journey as the repudiated queen of King Locrinus but ultimately became the first queen regnant of the Britons.
Born as one of the daughters of Corineus, the king of Cornwall and one of Brutus’s warriors, Gwendolen’s destiny was intertwined with the fate of her people. She was married to Locrinus, the eldest son of King Brutus, and together, they had a son named Maddan. However, tragedy struck when Locrinus divorced Gwendolen in favor of his Germanic mistress, Estrildis, who had already borne him a daughter named Habren.
Determined to reclaim her rightful place and seek justice, Gwendolen fled to Cornwall, where she spent several years building up a formidable army. With her forces ready, she waged war against her ex-husband, King Locrinus. The decisive battle took place near the River Stour, which served as the dividing line between Cornwall and Loegria.
In the epic clash, Gwendolen emerged victorious, leading to the downfall of King Locrinus. With her triumph, she not only avenged her personal injustices but also took on the mantle of leadership for the Britons. Gwendolen assumed the throne and ruled independently, just as her father had reigned in Cornwall.
During her peaceful and prosperous reign, Gwendolen further solidified her authority by eliminating any potential threats to her power. She orchestrated the drownings of both her ex-husband’s mistress, Estrildis, and their daughter, Habren, in the River Severn. This act served as a symbol of her strength and unwavering commitment to her people.
For the next fifteen years, Gwendolen guided the Britons with wisdom, compassion, and strength, earning her a place in the annals of history. However, recognizing the importance of dynastic succession, Gwendolen abdicated the throne in favor of her son, Maddan. She chose to live out the remainder of her life in Cornwall, where her legacy as a formidable queen endured.
Gwendolen’s tale has transcended time and has been immortalized in various literary works. In Edmund Spenser’s epic poem The Faerie Queene, she appears as Gwendolene, symbolizing strength and female empowerment. Additionally, the mythopoeic writings of William Blake incorporate Gwendolen as one of the twelve Daughters of Albion, further cementing her status as a legendary figure.
In the 20th century, feminist scholars recognized Gwendolen as a powerful woman who played a crucial role in healing a fractured Britain through her rule. Her story serves as an inspiration for women, highlighting their inherent strength, resilience, and ability to lead.