We’re on the search for Princess Aebbe’s missing 7th century monastery. Aethelthryth is a major player in her story, and today – June 23rd – is her feast day!
Aethelthryth (also known as Etheldreda) is probably most famous as being the person who founded a religious settlement (a double monastery) that would grow and later become the site of Ely Cathedral.
Like Aebbe, she was enormously influential in the spread of Christianity in the British Isles – together they helped convert not just the people of Northumbria, but the people of East Anglia too.
Their religious exploits aside, Aethelthryth’s story is particularly interesting where it intersects with that of Aebbe.
Born in the 7th century, Aethelthryth was an East Anglian princess who refused to consummate her marriage with either of the men she was wedded to (one being King Ecgfrith of Northumbria).
Although King Ecgfrith initially agreed that Aethelthryth could remain a virgin, he later changed his mind and tried to get Bishop Wilfrid to use his influence to persuade Aethelthryth to consummate their marriage.
When that didn’t work, he tried to take Aethelthryth by force, and later imprisoned Bishop Wilfrid. That’s when Princess Aebbe stepped in and, with her remarkable powers of political negotiation, managed to convince Ecgfrith to release Wilfrid.
She eventually died in AD 673. According to Bede, Aethelthryth’s bones were later disinterred by her sister and successor, Seaxburh. After 16 years, her body was found to still be in pristine condition, and her uncorrupted corpse was later buried in a white, marble coffin.
Blimey, WHAT A STORY; two brilliant and influential women Æethelthryth and Æbbe sticking to their guns, supporting each other and living their best lives. Let’s make sure they’re remembered!
