Joanna of Flanders
Joanna of Flanders (c. 1295 – September 1374) was Duchess of Brittany by her marriage to John of Montfort. Much of her life was taken up in defence of the rights of her husband and, later, son to the dukedom, which was challenged by the House of Blois during the War of the Breton Succession. Known for her fiery personality, Joanna led the Montfortist cause after her husband had been captured, and began the fight-back, showing considerable skill as a military leader.
| Joanna of Flanders | |
|---|---|
| Duchess consort of Brittany | |
| Tenure | 30 April 1341–16 September 1345 |
| Born | c. 1295 |
| Died | September 1374 (aged 78–79) |
| Spouse | John of Montfort |
| Issue | |
| House | Dampierre |
| Father | Louis I, Count of Nevers |
| Mother | Joan, Countess of Rethel |
Shortly after taking refuge in England, she was confined to Tickhill Castle by order of King Edward III.
Joanna was highly praised by the chronicler Jean Froissart for her courage and energy. Because of her feats of leadership, David Hume described her as "the most extraordinary woman of the age".