Poland's medieval queens: raised as angels, ruled with an iron hand

Poland's late-medieval queens were raised under the strict ideal of the virtuous maiden — schooled in modesty, embroidery and song rather than politics. They often arrived at Wawel Castle speaking no Polish and meeting their husbands for the first time on their wedding day. Jadwiga of Anjou and her successors nonetheless navigated the ruthless world of dynastic diplomacy despite having no preparation for it.