The marriage was at best a diplomatic alliance. Both men were suffering from Viking attacks, and formed a common alliance.[12] Charles heard of the low status of the wives of Wessex rulers.[13] He wanted her position safeguarded in England. Charles insisted that his daughter be consecrated queen.[14] Even though the king's wife in Wessex was not given the title of queen, Æthelwulf consented.[13] At her coronation she was anointed with chrism, usually reserved for anointing bishops and kings.[14]
The Mercians historically crowned queens. Ethelflaeda reigned as queen alongside her husband, then after his death she reigned as queen regnant. During her rule she played a vital part in the defense of Mercia.[26]
