A Tale of Two Pages

Joanna of Naples had one of the most interesting reigns of the Medieval world, however, most of the world does not remember her for the prosperity and calm that she brought to her realm. She is mainly remembered for the trial that she underwent for the murder of her husband. Although she was cleared of this murder, the stain hung on her character through the centuries. Most people look past what she was able to accomplish for the Kingdom of Naples, and focus on the one issue, but she was much more than that.

Happiness was never meant to be for Joanna. She was raised by her grandparents after the death of her parents. She became the heir of her grandfather, much to consternation of the nobles and the disappointment of the kingdom of Hungary. Throughout her entire reign, and especially after the death of her husband, of Hungarian origin, the threats became more apparent and proved watching.

Joanna was a huge patron of the arts, and she deeply cared for the welfare of the people living within her kingdom. Under her rule, the poorer people were taken care of. Hospitals were built, food was available, and the people were able to regain the prosperity which had been abundant under her grandfathers rule.


This book was a great read and brought to the forefront a lot of the history on Joanna that we do not normally hear. I would recommend this read out.