A Royal Affair: The Scandal That Shook the Danish Monarchy
Imagine a tale of love, betrayal, and political intrigue that could rival any modern-day drama! This is the story of the infamous royal affair that took place in the late 18th century, involving Queen Caroline Matilda of Denmark, her husband King Christian VII, and the king's physician, Johann Friedrich Struensee. The events unfolded in the Danish court between 1766 and 1772, primarily in the capital city of Copenhagen. This scandal not only captivated the public but also had significant political ramifications, leading to a dramatic shift in power within the Danish monarchy.
Queen Caroline Matilda, the younger sister of King George III of Great Britain, was married off to King Christian VII of Denmark in 1766. The marriage was politically motivated, as was common in royal unions of the time, and it quickly became apparent that the king was mentally unstable. Enter Johann Friedrich Struensee, a German physician who became the king's personal doctor in 1768. Struensee's influence over the king grew rapidly, and he soon became a de facto ruler, implementing progressive reforms that modernized Denmark.
The affair between Queen Caroline Matilda and Struensee began around 1770, fueled by the queen's loneliness and Struensee's charisma. Their relationship was an open secret in the court, and it provided Struensee with even more power. However, their liaison and Struensee's radical reforms made them many enemies among the conservative nobility. By 1772, a coup was orchestrated by the king's stepmother, Queen Dowager Juliana Maria, and her allies. Struensee was arrested and executed, while Queen Caroline Matilda was exiled to Germany, never to see her children again.
This royal affair is significant not only for its dramatic elements but also for its impact on Danish history. Struensee's reforms, though short-lived, laid the groundwork for future changes in Denmark, and the scandal highlighted the vulnerabilities of absolute monarchy. The story of Caroline Matilda and Struensee remains a fascinating chapter in the annals of European history, illustrating the complex interplay of personal relationships and political power.