Matilda facts for kids

Matilda (or Mathilda) is a female name that has been used for many centuries. It comes from an old German name, "Mahthildis," which means "mighty in battle" or "strength in battle." This name has been popular in different parts of the world and has been given to many important people, as well as being used in famous books and movies.

Matilda: The Famous Book and Movie

One of the most well-known uses of the name Matilda is in the popular children's novel by Roald Dahl. This book, simply titled Matilda, was first published in 1988. It tells the story of a very smart and special young girl named Matilda Wormwood.

Who is Matilda Wormwood?

Matilda Wormwood is a brilliant girl who loves to read books. Even though she is very young, she is much smarter than her parents and older brother, who don't appreciate her intelligence at all. Her parents are often mean to her and don't care about her education. Matilda finds comfort in books and often visits the library.

Matilda's Special Powers

As the story goes on, Matilda discovers she has a secret power: she can move objects with her mind! She uses this power, called telekinesis, to help her kind teacher, Miss Honey, and to get back at the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. The book teaches important lessons about standing up for yourself, the power of knowledge, and finding kindness in unexpected places.

The Movie Adaptation

The book was so popular that it was made into a movie in 1996, called Matilda (1996 movie). The film was directed by Danny DeVito, who also played Matilda's father. It brought the beloved characters and story to life on the big screen, making Matilda even more famous around the world.

Empress Matilda: A Royal Story

The name Matilda also belongs to a very important historical figure: Empress Matilda. She lived a long time ago, in the 12th century, and was a powerful woman who almost became the first queen of England.

Early Life and Marriage

Empress Matilda was born around 1102. She was the daughter of Henry I of England, who was the King of England and Duke of Normandy. When she was very young, she was sent to Germany to marry Henry V, Holy Roman Emperor. Because her husband was an emperor, she became known as Empress Matilda.

The Fight for the Throne

After her husband died, Matilda returned to England. Her father, King Henry I, had no other sons who lived to adulthood, so he declared Matilda his heir. This meant she was supposed to become the next ruler of England. However, when her father died in 1135, her cousin, Stephen of Blois, quickly took the throne instead.

The Anarchy

This led to a long and difficult civil war in England, which lasted for many years and is known as "The Anarchy." Matilda fought bravely to claim her rightful place as queen. She had many supporters, but also many enemies. Although she was never officially crowned Queen of England, she was a very strong and influential leader. She even ruled London for a short time.

Matilda's Legacy

Empress Matilda's son, Henry II of England, eventually became King of England. Her struggle paved the way for future queens to rule and showed that women could be powerful leaders. She is remembered as a determined and strong woman who fought for what she believed was hers.