Court life

What was the Privy Council?

A group of 19 men who advised Elizabeth but didn’t control her

What is an advantage of having a small group?

It minimised conflict between them, even if there were still differences in their opinions

What is a disadvantage of having a small Privy Council?

Elizabeth needed to make sure that they were all completely loyal to her, and she had to be careful not to give one man too much power, otherwise she might face jealousy and arguments between the sides

How often did the Privy Council meet?

Originally 3 times a week, but their meetings increased in frequency throughout the queen’s reign to meet every day

What did the Privy Council advise on?

Anything concerning England - domestic and foreign affairs, such as how to handle threats, when to go to war, relations with foreign ambassadors and supervising the enforcement of the Religious Settlement

Who were Elizabeth’s key advisors?

William Cecil, Robert Dudley, and Sir Francis Walsingham

What role did William Cecil hold?

Sectretary of State from 1558, and he gained the title Lord Burghley in 1571

Why did Elizabeth like William Cecil?

He had similar views to Elizabeth - he wanted to avoid war and unite the country through moderate policies

What title did Robert Dudley have?

Earl of Leicester

What rumours existed about Dudley and Elizabeth?

That they were lovers, since they were very close, and were childhood friends

What role did Sir Francis Walsingham have within the court?

He was in charge of Elizabeth’s secret service and advised her on foreign affairs

What was the most important moment in Walsingham’s carreer?

When he uncovered the plot that led to Mary Queen of Scots execution and saved Elizabeth’s life