4. Catherine de’ Medici vs. Diane de Poitiers
Queen Catherine de’ Medici’s rivalry with her husband King Henry II’s mistress, Diane de Poitiers, profoundly influenced French court politics. Their competition for Henry’s affection led to symbolic power plays and a toxic atmosphere at court. Diane’s influence was evident as she received the Château de Chenonceau, a property Catherine had coveted. After Henry’s death, Catherine exiled Diane, reclaiming the château and asserting her authority. (offbeatfrance.com)
