Emma of Paris, Duchess of Normandy facts for kids

Emma of Paris (born 943, died 19 March 968) was an important noblewoman in early French history. She became the Duchess consort of Normandy by marrying Richard I, Duke of Normandy. A "duchess consort" is the wife of a duke.

Emma came from a powerful family. Her father was Count Hugh the Great of Paris, and her mother was Hedwige of Saxony. Her brother, Hugh Capet, later became the King of France in 987.

Early Life and Family Connections

Emma was born in 943. Her family, the Robertians, was very influential in France. They were rivals with the French royal family at the time.

To make peace and form a strong team, Emma was promised to Richard I of Normandy when she was still a child. This kind of agreement, called a "betrothal," was common among royal families. It helped create alliances between different regions.

Coat-of--arms of Capetids.

Marriage and Its Importance

Emma and Richard I were married in 960. This marriage was very important for Normandy. It created a lasting and helpful connection between Normandy and Paris.

This alliance became even more valuable when Emma's brother, Hugh Capet, became the King of France in 987. This meant that the Duke of Normandy was now closely related to the King of France through marriage. This gave Normandy a stronger position in the kingdom.

Later Life and Legacy

Emma of Paris died on 19 March 968. She did not have any children.

Sometimes, people mistakenly think Emma of Paris was the mother of another famous Emma, Emma of Normandy. However, this is not possible because of the dates they lived. Emma of Paris died without children.