Espriota
Sprota was an early 10th century woman of obscure origin who became the wife "in the Viking fashion" of William I, Duke of Normandy. She was the mother of his successor, Duke Richard I. After William's death, Sprota married Esperleng, a wealthy landowner, and had another son, Rodulf of Ivry.
The first mention of Sprota comes from Flodoard of Reims, who identified her as the mother of Richard, born of a Breton concubine. Her name was first recorded by William of Jumièges in the 11th century. Sprota's relationship with William was non-Christian, leading to ridicule for her son Richard by the French King Louis.
Details about Sprota's death, cause of death, and burial are not provided in the sources. Her son Richard succeeded William I as Duke of Normandy.
Notable events
- early 10th centurySprota became the wife of William I, Duke of Normandy, in the Viking fashion.
- c. 936William I received news of Sprota giving birth to their son Richard.
- 943Flodoard of Reims mentioned Sprota as the mother of Richard.
- after 943Sprota married Esperleng, a wealthy landowner.
- after 943Sprota had a son named Rodulf of Ivry with Esperleng.
- 11th centuryWilliam of Jumièges first recorded Sprota's name.
- unknownSprota lived in her own household at Bayeux under William's protection.
- unknownSprota's relationship with William was a source of ridicule for her son Richard.
- unknownEsperleng operated mills at Pîtres.
- unknownSprota was identified as of Breton origin by Elisabeth van Houts.
Other details
Children: 2
Marriages: William I, Duke of Normandy; Esperleng