Christina of Denmark, Duchess of Milan and Lorraine, 1522-1590

"Christina of Denmark, Duchess of Milan and Lorraine, 1522-1590" by Julia Cartwright is a biographical study from the turn of the century that examines the life of Christina of Denmark, highlighting her noble ancestry, strategic marital relationships and the complex political schemes central to her life’s path. It recounts the experiences of a woman who attempts to gain some power in the middle of the uncertainty of European politics. The story begins by presenting Christina’s beginnings and challenges, along with her links to royalty, especially the marriages that she made with important people like Francesco Sforza and Francis, Duke of Lorraine. It emphasizes her romantic yet strained courtship with Henry VIII, and the sadness and challenges of her life, namely when her first husband dies and the problems in her family that caused her to be exiled. This establishes the scene for a narration about Christina's ability to bounce back as she goes through a challenging existence filled with remarkable moments and terrible occurrences.