Maude (Abbey of Heretics)

Empress Maude contested the throne of England in the 12th century against Stephen. She was considered by Sister Patrick to be the only true heir of Henry. Patrick also claimed to have heard reports of Maude burning down abbeys.

Godfred Aspley fought for the Empress, and his son Thomas tried to flee to Wales when Stephen took their lands. (AUDIO: Abbey of Heretics)

Behind the scenes
Empress Maude (also referred to as Matilda), in the real world, had her title by marriage to the Holy Roman Emperor. The war for England (referred to as the Anarchy) was resolved with a treaty which allowed King Stephen to retain his title. as long as Maude’s son, Henry, became king. following this treaty Maude returned to Normandy and spent most of the remainder of her life there. After Stephen’s death her son did take the throne becoming Henry II.