Margaret of Scotland, Queen of Norway (b. 1261; childbirth)

Margaret of Scotland, a figure of significant, albeit often overshadowed, historical importance, graced the European stage during the latter half of the 13th century. Born on 28 February 1261, she lived a relatively brief life, passing away on 9 April 1283. Known by various names reflecting the linguistic and cultural tapestry of her era – including Margrét Alexandersdóttir in Old Norse, Margrete Alexandersdotter in Norwegian, and Maighread Nic Rìgh Alasdair in Scottish Gaelic – she held the distinguished title of Queen of Norway.

Her queenship came through her marriage to King Eric II of Norway, forging an important dynastic link between the Scottish and Norwegian royal houses. Though her direct reign as Queen Consort was limited, her legacy became profoundly intertwined with the future of the Scottish throne through her daughter, also named Margaret. To avoid confusion with this incredibly significant offspring, Margaret of Scotland is sometimes referred to as the "Maid of Scotland", a poignant moniker that distinguishes her from her daughter, Margaret, Maid of Norway, who would herself become a crucial, albeit short-lived, claimant and eventual successor to the Scottish throne.

The Early Life and Royal Lineage of Margaret of Scotland

Born into royalty, Margaret was the daughter of King Alexander III of Scotland and his first wife, Margaret of England, who was herself the daughter of King Henry III of England. This illustrious parentage placed her firmly within the network of European monarchies, destined for a marriage that would serve political and dynastic interests. Her birth in Scotland connected her deeply to the Scottish realm, a connection that would ripple through history in unexpected ways after her passing.

Queen of Norway: A Dynastic Union

Margaret’s marriage to King Eric II of Norway was a strategic alliance, aiming to foster peace and cooperation between Scotland and Norway, two nations with a history of both interaction and occasional conflict, particularly over the Western Isles and the Isle of Man. The union took place in 1281, and with it, Margaret ascended to the position of Queen Consort of Norway. Her time as queen saw her integrate into the Norwegian court, though details of her daily life and direct influence are, as with many medieval consorts, not extensively documented. During her marriage, she gave birth to one daughter, Margaret, in 1283.

The "Maid of Scotland" and Her Daughter's Legacy

The distinctive appellation "Maid of Scotland" serves a vital historical purpose: to differentiate her from her only child, Margaret, who became known as the "Maid of Norway." The younger Margaret’s story is particularly compelling, as she was the last direct heir of the Scottish royal line established by William I, and her death without issue plunged Scotland into a succession crisis. Thus, Margaret of Scotland's identity became inextricably linked to her daughter's future role as a potential sovereign. Her premature death in 1283, shortly after giving birth to her daughter, meant she never witnessed the dramatic events that would unfold concerning her daughter's claim to the Scottish crown, a claim that arose directly from Margaret of Scotland’s own royal lineage as the daughter of King Alexander III.

Frequently Asked Questions about Margaret of Scotland

What was Margaret of Scotland's primary role?
Margaret of Scotland was Queen of Norway as the wife of King Eric II of Norway.
Why is she sometimes called the "Maid of Scotland"?
She is known as the "Maid of Scotland" to distinguish her from her daughter, also named Margaret, who became famously known as the "Maid of Norway" and was a claimant to the Scottish throne.
Who was her husband?
Her husband was King Eric II of Norway.
When was she born and when did she die?
Margaret of Scotland was born on 28 February 1261 and died on 9 April 1283, at the relatively young age of 22.
How was she connected to the Scottish throne?
She was the daughter of King Alexander III of Scotland. Her only child, Margaret, Maid of Norway, became the designated heir to the Scottish throne after the deaths of her maternal grandfather and uncles, making Margaret of Scotland a crucial link in the royal succession.
Did she have any children?
Yes, she had one daughter, Margaret, who was born in 1283 and became known as the Maid of Norway.