F

ew women in history attained the level of power and influence, both political and artistic, that was known to Eleanor of Aquitaine.  Her grandfather, William IX, is considered to be the first troubadour, a composer of lyric poetry who dealt mainly with themes of love and chivalry.  Whereas the minstrel or the jongleur (juggler) were known as minor servants and performers of other’s works, the title of troubadour was only given to those of noble birth who exercised their poetic and musical talents throughout the land without thought of compensation. These traveling poet-musicians were the primary source of news to towns, bringing word of the goings on in the country via verse and song. They were the elite and educated stars of their time, promulgating a new style of art, while simultaneously acting as a modern-day reporter. While the subject matter of many of their earlier verses focused on Platonic love, their personal conduct frequently fell short of their literary and musical ideals.