(931-999)
- Born in Northern Italy.
- When she was two, a treaty was made to end a war in that area of Italy, which entailed her being married to King Lothair. She married him when she was 16, and they had a daughter, Emma, together.
- Her husband was poisoned by a man named Berengarius who wanted to take power of this part of Italy. Since she refused to just go with the flow, Berengarius put her in prison.
- A priest named Martin dug a subterranean passageway and took her into the woods where she was kept safe. Later, a nice duke from Canossa took the fugitive in.
- Meanwhile, the Emperor of Germany named Otto the Great grew tired of Berengarius’ un-chivalrous methods, so he conquered that area of Italy, freeing Adelaide.
- Although he was 20 years older than Adelaide, they decided to get married in 951.
- They had five children together, but only three sons survived.
- During this time, she had to endure family disputes with a jealous step-son and later had great difficulties with her own son’s wife.
- She also showed great intellectual abilities and took care of many issues and affairs in the German state, being known for graciousness and gentleness.
- Her husband died in 973.
- At this time, her son’s wife became increasingly jealous of Adelaide’s good nature and concern for the poor. Adelaide had to leave her home at this time, but Otto II later repented of having treated Adelaide so poorly, so she returned. He died in 983.
- After her son died, her daughter-in-law became the Regent since Otto III was still a baby and drove Adelaide away again from their home for another 8 years. After her daughter-in-law died, Adelaide, in her old age, then had to take on the duties of Regent until Otto III was old enough to take over.
- Besides her perseverance in trials brought on by her own family members, she was also known for being forgiving to enemies, for giving helpful advice to other persons who became Saints, and for founding and restoring monasteries. She was also an important influence in the conversion of the Slavic people, who esteemed her highly.
- Info cited under “Authentic Femininity, Lived” tab
lamehousewife
