Elizabeth I of England: Her Reign, Her Kingdom, Her World

Course Description

This course offers an intensive and wide-ranging introduction to the life and times of the iconic Queen Elizabeth of England (1533-1603). The course is divided into three major, complementary, blocs: first, a narrative exploration of her reign; second, a set of discussions on the character of England during the reign of Elizabeth, including considerations of gender, culture and religion; a final block situates Elizabeth and England in a global context, focusing on how England related to other territories in the British Isles and continental Europe, as well as the role played by England in the ‘discovery’ and colonisation of America. Through a blend of lectures, seminar discussions, individual student presentations and independent essay work, the course repays dedication and diligence with a comprehensive set of insights into a compelling historical figure and the world she inhabited.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
– Highly developed skills in the communication of complex historical ideas; – Awareness of the various problems associated with the writing of Tudor history;
– Competence in the interpretation of primary sources;
– Critical appreciation of the interplay between powerful and charismatic historical individuals such as Elizabeth I and the structural conditions that necessarily helped shape and limit their actions and personalities;
– Deep understanding of early modern England, including internal characteristics and external challenges;
– Critical appreciation of Elizabeth I as a monarch and a personality, including the strengths and weaknesses of her ruling style;
– Familiarity with key problems of interest to historians of the Elizabethan era, including gender, politics, war and religion.