Nature of Elizabethan Monarchy, Government and Parliament

Question 1

Court

Answer 1

Two main areas to the court
Presence Chamber - monarch might be seen
Privy Chamber - access guarded
Elizabeth turned many politicians to courtiers, also used for private rituals masques for Gloriana image
Being in court meant they could gain patronage and influence decisions, in the summer there would be royal tours

Question 2

William Cecil’s role

Answer 2

Relationship lasted 40 years and ended with his death 1598 and his son succeeded him
Important because:
Created intelligence service
Managed house of commons and Lords
Created propaganda system
Drafted Elizabeth’s correspondence
Ensured efficient Privy Council
Pursued prudent economic policy to give small debt to next monarch.
Incredible work rate, involved in all decisions and ensured finance was effective in he Spanish Armada.

Question 3

Privy Council

Answer 3

Group of advisors, Elizabeth hand chose a small group (around a dozen) Meeting regularly, so where in control of events.
3 main groups:
Nobility (natural advisors)
Experience with prior monarchy
Those she saw suitable
Many issues discussed:
Illness (smallpox 1562)
Marriage 
Mary Queen of Scots management
William Orange / dutch rebels

Question 4

Faction

Answer 4

Result of Patronage, had potential dangers if monarch preferred a faction like 1601 Essex Rebellion but Elizabeth used them to her advantage.

Question 5

Main Factions

Answer 5

Cecil and Dudley, Differing policies, peaceful vs Aggressive
Dudley and Howard with the accusation of Dudley murdering his wife so he could marry Elizabeth, so Elizabeth announced she would not marry Dudley, usually managed due to no decision
Could lead to executions -
Norfolk 1572 after Ridolfi Plot
Essex 1601 after his rebellion

Question 6

Conflict between Parliament and Elizabeth

Answer 6

Religion -
Over religious settlement with possible change, 1571 Strickland suspended = Deterrant
Marriage and Succession -
Major MP concerns
Freedom of Speech -
Elizabeth forebode discussion on certain topics
Monopolies -
1598 & 1601 so MPs used this to complain on royal prerogative on monopolies, so Elizabeth canceled some and made Golden Speech.