Elizabeth's Court

Justices of the Peace

Large landowners responsible for maintaining law and order in local areas, reporting to the Privy Council, and judging serious county court cases every three months.

Parliament

A group of men who voted on elections, raised taxes for the monarch, passed laws (Acts of Parliament), and could only be called and dismissed by the monarch.

Privy Council

Comprised the monarch’s trusted advisors, met regularly to advise on policy, ensure the monarch’s decisions were carried out, oversee law and order, and monitor other governmental bodies like Justices of the Peace and Parliament.

Court

Made up of nobility serving as courtiers, advising and entertaining the monarch, with more influence over the monarch than official titles.

Elizabeth’s Privy Council

A small group of advisors chosen by Elizabeth to provide guidance on domestic and foreign policy, enforce the Religious Settlement, and ensure balance of power within the council.