Jane Shore: The 15th Century Royal Mistress Forced to Walk London’s Streets in her Underwear

Elizabeth ‘Jane’ Shore was an Englishwoman who lived between the 15^th and 16^th centuries. She is best remembered as one the many mistresses of the English king Edward IV. As one of the king’s favorites, Jane Shore wielded a considerable amount of influence on Edward IV, which she used to help those who incurred the king’s displeasure. After Edward IV’s death, however, Jane Shore quickly fell from power. Nevertheless, she survived this and lived peacefully till a ripe old age of 82.

When was Jane Shore Born?

Jane Shore (born Elizabeth Lambert) was born in London around 1445. She was the daughter of John Lambert, a wealthy merchant and his wife, Amy. Due to her family’s wealth, Jane received a high level of education, which, at that time was uncommon for people of this class and even more so for a female. Additionally, her family’s social standing provided Jane with the opportunity to socialize with important members of English society.

Many Suitors But Did Her Marriage Succeed?

As a young woman, Jane was both intelligent and beautiful, thus attracting many admirers. Nevertheless, her first marriage was arranged by her father, who was anxious that his daughter be suitably married as soon as possible. Her father’s choice was the goldsmith William Shore. Despite being 15 years older than Jane, William was considered to have been very handsome and extremely wealthy. The marriage, however, was not a success as Jane did not have affection for her husband. In March 1476, the annulment of the marriage was granted by Pope Sixtus IV, on the grounds that William was impotent and therefore was unable to fulfil his marital duties of fathering children.