Philippa's early life was marked by a diverse education and exposure to influential figures. She was the eldest child of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and Blanche of Lancaster. Her upbringing included moving between her family's properties, and she received education alongside her siblings, Elizabeth and Henry. Philippa's mother passed away when she was eight years old, and her father remarried, which ultimately led to Philippa's education being influenced by her stepmother, Katherine Swynford. Katherine's close relationship with Geoffrey Chaucer, the renowned poet, played a role in shaping Philippa's education as well. Through her tutors, Philippa gained knowledge in various subjects, including science, poetry, philosophy, and theology. Her education set her apart as a well-read and intellectually curious woman of her time.

In 1387, Philippa became the Queen of Portugal through her marriage to King John I. This union was not only a personal commitment but also a strategic move to solidify the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance against the Franco-Castillian axis. The couple's marriage was celebrated with great pomp and lasted for nearly three decades. Although King John I already had a mistress and children from that relationship, Philippa bore him nine children, six of whom survived into adulthood.

Despite presenting herself as a pious and non-interfering queen, Philippa exerted significant influence in both the Portuguese and English courts. She maintained communication with the English court, actively participating in politics and intervening on behalf of supporters of her deposed brother, Richard II. Philippa's diplomatic efforts extended to arranging a marriage between the Earl of Arundel and her husband's illegitimate daughter, further solidifying the alliance between Portugal and England. Her astuteness in politics was evident in her understanding of the economic challenges faced by Portugal after years of conflict, leading her to devise plans for the conquest of Ceuta, a strategic city for trade. Although she passed away before witnessing the success of this endeavor, her vision was eventually realized in the Conquest of Ceuta in 1415.

Lisbon.vip Recommends

Tragically, at the age of 55, Philippa fell victim to the plague. As her illness progressed, she summoned her sons and blessed them, presenting her three eldest sons with jewel-encrusted swords and portions of the True Cross. King John I, who had initially been reluctant to marry her, was deeply affected by her illness and showed great grief. In her final hours, Philippa remained lucid and peaceful, passing away with a smile on her face, as if dismissing the troubles of the world.

Philippa's impact extended to her children, who would become known as the "Illustrious Generation" in Portugal. Her sons Edward, Peter, Henry, and Ferdinand all made significant contributions to the history and culture of Portugal. Edward succeeded his father as King of Portugal and was known for his intellect and writing, while Henry, famously called "the Navigator", spearheaded Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Philippa's daughter, Isabella, married Philip III of Burgundy and became a prominent figure in European politics.

Queen Philippa left a profound legacy as a diplomatic and influential queen consort. Her marriage to King John I strengthened the alliance between England and Portugal, and her involvement in politics helped shape the course of both nations. Philippa's commitment to education, her astute political maneuvering, and her foresight in matters of trade and exploration contributed to the prosperity and cultural achievements of Portugal. She will always be remembered as a queen who left an indelible mark on history and as a devoted mother to the "Illustrious Generation" who played a pivotal role in shaping Portugal's future.