Lady Godiva and Leofric, Earl of Mercia

​

Lady Godiva

​

Lady Godiva, also known as Godgifu, was an 11th-century Anglo-Saxon noblewoman. She is best known for the legendary tale in which she rode naked through the streets of Coventry to persuade her husband, Leofric, to reduce the oppressive taxes he had imposed on his tenants[. While the story of her ride is widely considered a myth, Lady Godiva was indeed a real person known for her generosity and piety.

​

Godiva was married to Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and together they were significant benefactors to various religious institutions. They founded and endowed a Benedictine monastery at Coventry in 1043. Godiva's name appears in several charters and the Domesday Book, indicating her status and influence during her time

.

Leofric, Earl of Mercia

​

Leofric was a powerful Anglo-Saxon nobleman who became Earl of Mercia around 1032. He was a key figure in the court of King Cnut and his successors. Leofric was known for his political influence and his role in supporting Harold Harefoot's claim to the throne against Harthacnut

.

Leofric and Godiva were both noted for their charitable contributions to the church. In addition to founding the monastery at Coventry, they were benefactors to other religious houses, including those at Much Wenlock and Evesham.

​

Impact on Newark

​

Lady Godiva and Leofric's impact on Newark is primarily linked to their religious endowments. In the 11th century, Lady Godiva gave the income of her manor of Newark to Stow Monastery near Lincoln. This endowment would have provided significant financial support to the monastery and contributed to the religious and economic development of the area.

Leofric's influence extended to various parts of Mercia, including Newark. His political and military power helped maintain stability and order in the region, which would have indirectly benefited Newark and its inhabitants

.

Overall, Lady Godiva and Leofric's contributions to religious institutions and their political influence had a lasting impact on the areas under their control, including Newark. Their legacy is remembered through various historical records and the enduring legend of Lady Godiva's ride.

k!

​