2: James 1 and Charles 1, Court Flashcards
When did James I become King of England?
1603
When did James I become King if Scotland?
1567
3 points on James’ character:
- Intellectual
- Pragmatic
- Communicated well
3 points on Charles’ character:
- Shy, hampered by speech impediment
- Inferiority complex
- Unwilling to compromise
What was James’ view on monarchy?
- Saw himself as the peacemaker King (Rex Pacificus)
- Passionate about the Divine Right of Kings but sought compromise over his own prerogative
What were Charles’ view on monarchy?
-Charles provocatively defended his own prerogative out of his limited self confidence
What was the Privy Council?
The kings selected advisers who met the monarch in private and oversaw the implementation of his policies
Who were the Gentleman of the Bedchamber?
Courtiers who waited upon the king and provided companionship to the monarch, they were important at Court as they had great influence over the King
What was James’ court like?
- Open and lively, James interacted with his courtiers heartily
- Had been criticised as drunken/unruly
- Influenced by James’ love of culture (e.g. Shakespeare)
What was an early source of tension at James’ court?
The dominance of the Bedchamber by Scots
Who was the first Englishman appointed to the Bedchamber?
George Villiers (in 1615)
What was Charles’ court like?
- Strict order
- Filled with Charles’ favourites
- Seemed to be dominated by Catholics/Arminians
What was a court masque?
A masked performance that Charles took part in, criticised for their association with Catholicism
What was Charles’ art collection?
Charles had many paintings which he assembled at a huge cost, many created by Anthony Van Dyck, created the impression Charles was Catholic
Who was George Villiers?
Favourite of both Charles and James, who was hated and seen as having too much influence on both monarchs
