Origins & Early Life

Lady Godiva (; died between 1066 and 1086), in Old English Gōdgifu, was a late Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who is relatively well documented as the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and a patron of various churches and monasteries. She is mainly remembered for a legend dating back to at least the 13th century, in which she rode naked – covered only by her long hair – through the streets of Coventry to gain a remission of the oppressive taxation that her husband, Leofric, imposed on his tenants. The name "Peeping Tom" for a voyeur originates from later versions of this legend, in which a man named Thomas watched her ride and was struck blind or dead. Godiva was the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

They had nine children; one son was Ælfgar. Godiva's name occurs in charters and the Domesday Book, though the spelling varies. The Old English name Godgifu or Godgyfu meant "gift of God"; 'Godiva' was the name's Latinised form. Since the name was a popular one, there are contemporaries of the same name. It is claimed that Godiva was born in Bucknall, Lincolnshire, around 995 AD; however several historians have declared the charter used as evidence for this to be spurious...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

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