Joan Thynne

Joan, Lady Thynne, born Joan Hayward (1558 – 3 March 1612) was an English gentlewoman. She took an active role in managing property including Caus Castle. The secret marriage of her son is said to have inspired Shakespeare's retelling of the ''Romeo and Juliet'' story. Joan fought the marriage for seven years; she did not forgive her son and took him to court again after he inherited Longleat House. Provided by Wikipedia