Maria Theresa

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In the 18th century, "female rule" was not unusual, but Empress Maria Theresa took governance as a personal responsibility and approached it with utmost diligence. This impressive biography by Barbara Stollberg-Rilinger illuminates the dynamics at the Habsburg court, in Vienna, within the Holy Roman Empire, and across the various countries of the monarchy. It vividly describes key state actions such as the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748) and the Seven Years' War (1756-1763) against Frederick the Great of Prussia. The work also addresses themes such as marriage, sexuality, pregnancy, the upbringing of her numerous children, and conflicts with her son and co-regent Joseph II. Additionally, it explores the relentless religious policies of the staunchly Catholic empress, who ultimately appeared out of touch with her time. Drawing on numerous, sometimes obscure sources, it creates a unique portrait of Maria Theresa, free from hagiographic elements, depicting a dutiful matriarch who subjected herself, her family, and her subjects to a strict regime.