The Problem of Marriage and the Succession Flashcards
What incident drew attention to the uncertainty of England’s future?
In 1562, Elizabeth nearly died from smallpox.
Who were the 3 most important potential suitors for Elizabeth?
-Robert Dudley, Earl of Liecester
-Frances, Duke of Anjou
-King Phillip II of Spain.
Why could Elizabeth not marry Dudley?
There were suspicions she had murdered his previous wife.
Why was Dudley a potential suitor?
-Childhood friend and favourite of Elizabeth
-Many historians believe Elizabeth genuinely loved him
-He desperately wanted to marry her
-He was a key figure in the royal court and member of the Privy Council.
Why, as well as why wasn’t Phillip a potential suitor?
-He was one of the wealthiest and most powerful men in the world
-However he was Catholic
-Elizabeth also knew how badly he had treated her sister Mary during their brief marriage, nor did she forget Mary’s choice of Spanish husband had been so unpopular with the English people that it caused rebellion.
Why, as well as why wasn’t the Duke of Anjou a potential suitor?
-He was the heir to the French throne
-By the time a marriage was proposed, Elizabeth was 46 and probably beyond having children. A childless marriage could result in England falling under French control
-He was Catholic, and many important figures in Elizabeth’s court were against the marriage.
Why was there urgency for Elizabeth to marry and produce an heir?
She was the last of Henry VIII children, if she died without an heir, the Tudor dynasty would die too.
