In exploring the exceptionally well-documented activities of Aemilia Juliana of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt (1637-1706), this study confirms and expands on recent attempts to characterize the roles played by the wives of rulers in the many small principalities of early modern Germany. Judith Aikin analyzes a wide range of texts and cultural artifacts in order to disclose the scope of the contributions of this ruler¿s consort as full partner in the ruling couple.