AQA GCSE History - Elizabethan England (1568-1603) - The background and court of Elizabeth I

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• What is the Great Chain of Being?

  The Great Chain of Being is a hierarchical structure that was prevalent in the Elizabethan era, emphasizing the divine right of monarchs to rule. It posits that all beings, from God down to the lowest forms of life, are arranged in a strict order. At the top of this hierarchy is God, followed by angels, monarchs, nobles, gentry, and commoners. This concept influenced governance and social order during Elizabeth I's reign, reinforcing the idea that the monarch's authority was divinely sanctioned. Elizabeth I, as the queen, was seen as the highest earthly authority, which helped legitimize her rule and maintain social stability. The Great Chain of Being also served to justify the existing social structure, where each class had its designated role and place, thereby discouraging social mobility and promoting a sense of order in society.

• How did Elizabeth I manage her court?

  Elizabeth I managed her court with a combination of strategic patronage, a small Privy Council, and careful selection of advisors. By granting key positions to loyal supporters, such as William Cecil and Robert Dudley, she consolidated her power and ensured that her court was filled with individuals who were both competent and loyal. The Privy Council, consisting of about 19 members, allowed for efficient decision-making and close governance, contrasting with the larger councils of her predecessors. Elizabeth's approach to court management also included maintaining a strong public image through ceremonies and royal progresses, which reinforced her authority among her subjects. Additionally, she employed harsh punishments for rebellion and dissent, ensuring that any threats to her rule were swiftly dealt with. This careful balance of power and public perception helped Elizabeth maintain control over her court and the kingdom.

• What was the Elizabethan Religious Settlement?

  The Elizabethan Religious Settlement was a series of laws and policies implemented by Elizabeth I to establish a middle ground in religious practices in England. Aimed at unifying the country under a Protestant framework, the Settlement sought to address the deep religious divisions that had emerged during the reigns of her predecessors, particularly the Catholic restoration under Mary I. The Settlement included the Act of Supremacy, which declared Elizabeth as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and the Act of Uniformity, which set out the form of worship and the Book of Common Prayer. By promoting a moderate Protestantism, Elizabeth aimed to avoid conflict with Catholic powers while also appeasing Protestant reformers. This approach was crucial in stabilizing England's religious landscape and reducing tensions, allowing Elizabeth to focus on governance and foreign relations without the constant threat of religious upheaval.

• Why was Elizabeth I called the "Virgin Queen"?

  Elizabeth I was referred to as the "Virgin Queen" due to her decision to remain unmarried throughout her reign, which became a significant aspect of her public persona. This title not only emphasized her single status but also allowed her to cultivate an image of independence and authority, free from the influence of a husband. By portraying herself as the "Virgin Queen," Elizabeth aligned herself with the idea of purity and divine favor, suggesting that her reign was sanctioned by God. This image was further reinforced through propaganda, including portraits that depicted her as a powerful and untouchable monarch. The notion of the "Virgin Queen" also played into the cultural and political narratives of the time, allowing Elizabeth to maintain control over her court and avoid the complications that could arise from marriage alliances. Ultimately, this carefully crafted identity contributed to her popularity and the stability of her reign.

• Who were Elizabeth I's key advisors?

  Elizabeth I's key advisors included prominent figures such as William Cecil, Lord Burghley, and Francis Walsingham. William Cecil served as her main advisor for much of her reign, providing conservative counsel that helped maintain stability in the kingdom. His expertise in governance and policy was crucial during a time of political uncertainty. Francis Walsingham, known as the "spymaster," played a vital role in national security, developing an extensive spy network that uncovered plots against Elizabeth, including the Rodolfi and Babington plots. These advisors were instrumental in shaping Elizabeth's policies and decisions, ensuring that her government functioned effectively. The careful selection of her Privy Council members, who were loyal and politically diverse, allowed Elizabeth to navigate the complexities of her reign while managing potential threats. Their contributions were essential in helping Elizabeth maintain her authority and address the challenges she faced as a female monarch in a male-dominated society.