The Elizabethans, 1580—1603 (OCR)

What period does 'Elizabethan England' refer to?

The later reign of Queen Elizabeth I from 1580 to 1603.

What is often considered the 'Golden Age' of England?

The Elizabethan era during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

What were the key themes of the Elizabethan era?

Religious tensions, political stability, economic development, social structure, culture and arts, foreign policy, and succession.

What was the primary goal of Elizabeth's foreign policy?

To protect England from foreign invasion and promote trade and prosperity.

What key religious challenges did Elizabeth face?

Challenges from Catholics and Puritans regarding the religious settlement.

What was the structure of Elizabethan social hierarchy?

Monarch, nobility, gentry, merchants, yeomen farmers, tenant farmers, labourers, urban poor, vagrants.

What was the 'Great Chain of Being'?

The belief in a divinely ordained social order where everyone had a fixed place.

What was the role of women in Elizabethan society?

Limited legal and social rights, subordinate to men, primarily managing households.

Who was the monarch during the Elizabethan era?

Queen Elizabeth I.

What was the primary industry driving economic growth in Elizabethan England?

The cloth trade, particularly woollen cloth.

What were the major economic problems faced during the Elizabethan era?

Inflation, poverty, and the repercussions of the enclosure movement.

What was the purpose of the Poor Laws in Elizabethan England?

To address poverty by distinguishing between the 'deserving' and 'undeserving' poor.

What was Elizabeth's approach to patronage?

She used it to reward loyalty and maintain control over the nobility.

What were Justices of the Peace (JPs) responsible for?

Maintaining law and order and administering local government.

What was the Act of Supremacy?

It declared Elizabeth as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.

What challenges did Catholics pose to Elizabeth?

Plots to overthrow Elizabeth and support for Mary Queen of Scots.

What was the Spanish Armada and why was it significant?

The 1588 attempt by Spain to invade England; its defeat marked a major turning point.

What are some notable cultural achievements of the Elizabethan era?

The flourishing of arts and literature, including works by Shakespeare and Marlowe.

What was the importance of public theatres during this time?

They attracted large audiences from all social classes and popularized dramatic arts.

Who was Sir Francis Drake?

An English sea captain known for circumnavigating the globe and raiding Spanish ships.

What characterized Elizabethan exploration and expansion?

A desire for trade, national glory, religious zeal, and adventure.

What was the outcome of the Roanoke Colony effort?

It failed, leading to the mystery of the 'Lost Colony'.

What were the challenges faced by England in the late 1590s?

Economic hardship, social unrest, and political tensions.

What was the Essex Rebellion?

A rebellion led by the Earl of Essex against Elizabeth's government in 1601.

How did Elizabeth address the succession crisis?

She tacitly accepted James VI of Scotland as her successor.

What legacy did Elizabethan England leave behind?

It is remembered as a 'Golden Age' for its political stability and cultural achievements.

What key factors contributed to social unrest in late Elizabethan England?

Increased vagrancy, poverty, food riots, and social inequality.

What was the significance of the Thirty-Nine Articles?

They defined the doctrines of the Church of England, mixing Protestant and Catholic elements.

What was Elizabeth's view towards Puritan challenges?

She managed Puritan opposition but tensions remained.

How did Elizabeth cultivate her image as a ruler?

By promoting herself as the 'Virgin Queen', wise and dedicated to her country.

What was the role of the Privy Council?

Elizabeth's key advisors, responsible for day-to-day government and law.

What were the economic consequences of inflation during Elizabeth's reign?

Reduced living standards, especially for the poor.

What was a main characteristic of Elizabethan theatre?

Explored a wide range of themes, including love, history, politics, and morality.

How did foreign policy shape Elizabethan England's interactions?

Focused on national security, trade, balance of power, and supporting Protestantism.

What was the impact of the Spanish Netherlands on Elizabethan policy?

England supported Dutch Protestant rebels, leading to conflict with Spain.

What motivated the English to colonize new territories during Elizabeth's reign?

The quest for trade routes and national prestige.

What marked the end of the Tudor dynasty?

Elizabeth's death in 1603, leading to the beginning of the Stuart era.