Like their better studied royal sisters farther north, Spanish queens were expected to produce an heir, to raise and educate their children, to take part in ceremonial functions, to perform charitable work, and to patronize religion and art. However, they were more likely to be active in the governance of the realm and to exercise considerable legitimate authority, more often, more publicly, and more directly than elsewhere in Europe. Mostly American, but some Spanish, historians explore the practical limits of partnership, practicing the politics of religion, and representing the politics of queenship. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)