THE MAIN DIRECTIONS OF THE PROTECTION AND CHARITY POLICIES OF THE KINGS IN MEDIEVAL EUROPE

This work examines the forms of manifestation of power by influential women of the Middle ages. The author identifies three main models of political participation-queen consort, regent and sovereign. Analyzing historical literature, the author identifies the main areas of European society in which their activities are actively manifested. First of all, this is the public representation of the image of power, mediation in resolving political disagreements within the state between warring parties or estates, the performance of the role of «mother of the kingdom» as a patroness for her subjects. The author concludes that influential ladies also play a major role in the spread of culture, becoming patrons of artists and poets, and commissioners of magnificent monuments of material culture, demonstrating not only their piety, but also strengthening and elevating the position of their home.