Online Lecture: Catherine de Medici — The Power Behind the Throne

From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, three queens shaped the course of France through power, ambition and resilience. Join Caroline Buizza, local educator, for her latest series on extraordinary women in French history. In this third session, learn about one of the most emblematic figures of the Renaissance, Catherine de Medici. She was Queen of France as the wife of Henri II, but her true influence emerged as Queen Mother. As regent for her sons, she wielded immense power, navigating court intrigue and religious conflict. Often seen as dark and mysterious, Catherine remains one of history’s most fascinating queens.

This lecture is the third in a series of lectures focused on Queens of France. The series will take place on three consecutive Mondays. We also invite you to enroll in "Online Lecture: Alienor of Aquitaine — A Queen with Two Crowns" (#25197) on March 24, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET/ 11 a.m. PT and in "Online Lecture: Anne de Bretagne — A Queen with Two Crowns" (#25193) on March 31, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET/ 11 a.m. PT. The cost for each lecture is $25. Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and reminder emails leading up to the lecture. On the morning of the event, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.