The Power and Persona of Catherine de' Medici

By: William Landon, The Great Courses

Narrated by: William Landon

Though she was born into one of the most powerful families of Renaissance Italy, Catherine de’ Medici was never expected to wield real political power. With a childhood shaped by tragedy and a marriage dictated by political expediency, Catherine rose to the throne as queen of France during a turbulent era of religious upheaval, eventually emerging as one of the most influential rulers in the history of continental Europe.

In the six lectures of The Power and Persona of Catherine de’ Medici, you will join Professor William Landon of Northern Kentucky University to explore the impact of an unlikely ruler who established an astonishing political and cultural legacy. As you trace the arc of Catherine’s personal and political life, you’ll learn how, after the death of her husband, King Henry II, she managed to maintain his dynasty through three of her sons.

You’ll discover how her pursuit of peace between the Catholics and Protestants helped to shape the political landscape of 16th-century France. You’ll also see how her diplomatic finesse helped maintain Europe’s balance of power and how her wide-ranging interests influenced French culture in ways that can still be felt centuries later.

Despite an inauspicious childhood, an unhappy marriage, and the religious clashes that challenged both her own authority and that of her children, Catherine de’ Medici emerged as one of the most notable rulers of the Renaissance period. As you’ll discover, Catherine’s intelligence, perseverance, and efforts toward peace within a deeply divided kingdom left a legacy that continues to echo to the present day.

©2025 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2025 Audible Originals, LLC.

Fascinating!

Landon's content is rich in detail and research. He is a master storyteller making complex history accessible, interesting, and provocative. You will feel like you are living in the world of Catherine de' Medici.

Another Great Work

I had no special interest in Italian history until I discovered Bill’s Great Course video on the Medici. I really enjoy his narratives and his voice. He has a knack for making history come alive, and he has well researched insights. I instantly became interested in Italian history.

This new book was no different. I liked how he presented the main themes of Catherine’s life and he was willing to diverge from some previous interpretations of it.

Not to spoil anything, but I was amazed to learn she was personally connected to a famous astrologer. You have to listen yourself to hear who it is.

Wow, well that was interesting.

Was extremely interesting. I don’t really listen to many books outside of the fantasy genre and I found this extremely intriguing. Will definitely be looking more into history books and possibly autobiographies. Plus his voice is fantastic 👌

Very interesting’

I highly recommend this historical biography. Seems extremely well research. Beautifully read. The information is rather shocking too.

Excellent listen, truly a Great Course

This is a fantastic lecture: full of intrigue, history, and mystery. It will also whet your appetite for more history about Catherine de' Medici.--J.