Maintenance 1 - Role of Crown Flashcards
What made the monarch important in maintaining political stability?
Had ultimate authority because they were appointed by God so rebellions were seen as a sin against God.
What event in the Tudor period increased the monarch’s authority and why did it increase authority?
The Reformation, 1536, and Henry VIII’s break with Rome because subjects were no longer loyal to the Pope - only to God and the King.
What reinforced the belief in complete obedience to the ruler and how was this upheld (examples)?
-The hierarchical nature of society. -This was upheld by Tudor Propaganda - also aided by the introduction of the printing press which allowed propaganda to reach wider parts of society. -Examples of this propaganda are writers such as Richard Hooker and Edmund Dudley who argued everyone had a place in society and should accept it.
How did Tudor monarchs reinforce their authority?
-Office holders had to swear oaths of allegiance. -Individuals and institutions swore Oaths of Succession and Supremacy. Monarchs issued proclamations which were read out in churches and by market places. -The use of propaganda. -The use of patronage.
How did Henry VII use propaganda?
-Created the image of the Tudor Rose which showed the unity between the Houses of York and Lancaster. -Claimed to be a descendant of the legendary King Arthur to bolster his claim to the throne.
How did Henry VIII use propaganda?
-Used paintings to show his physical presence and therefore his strength and power - also put these images on coins. -He built lavish palaces, like Nonsuch, to reflect his authority.
Why was it harder for Edward and Mary to portray their power?
-Difficult for Edward as he was a young boy -Difficult for Mary as she was a female ruler who couldn’t be shown in military dress
How did Edward portray his increasing power and authority later in his reign?
-His images appeared on coins. -He became more militaristic as his reign progressed
How did Elizabeth make use of propaganda?
-She toured much of southern and central England during many summers, undertaking royal progresses and staying with leading nobles and gentry so that she was seen with the people, reinforcing loyalty. -Frequently held pageants which depicted her as the instrument of stability and the savior of the nation. -Paintings were used to show her wisdom and leadership, particularly after the defeat of the Armada. -Represented as Astraea, a mythical goddess renowned for her beauty, giving the impression Elizabeth was her equivalent.
What did monarchs use to control the political elite?
Patronage.
What mid-fourteenth century honour did Henry VII use the ultimate sign of honour for his subjects?
Order of Garter.
How did monarchs reward loyal servants?
-Peerages (granting of noble status) and Knighthoods. -Grants of monopoly and land.
What downside came from granting rewards at court, despite it increasing loyalty (example)?
-It could backfire if the rewards went all to one faction. -This is what caused Essex rebellion when many Elizabeth bestowed numerous rewards to the Cecil family.
What was the importance of retaining the loyalty of the nobility?
The monarch had no army and so relied on nobles to raise troops to put down unrest.
