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The early rule of Queen Elizabeth I - EdexcelElizabeth's character

Elizabeth inherited problems in religion, economy and foreign policy. She tightly controlled Parliament and her Privy Council. She never married, putting the security of England before herself.

Part of HistoryElizabeth I

Elizabeth's character

Historians have described Elizabeth in many ways. They suggest Elizabeth was:

A well-educated and intelligent womanShe was highly literate, spoke foreign languages and so was able to deal directly with foreign ambassadors.
Married to her peopleIt is possible that Elizabeth chose to remain unmarried to exploit the relationship she developed with the nation.
A dominant monarchElizabeth was always willing to assert her powers. She famously said, ‘I will have one mistress and no master’.
A skilful propagandistElizabeth understood the need to create the right image. She was partly responsible for creating a ‘Golden age’ and the ‘Cult of Gloriana’.
LoyalTo those who served her well she was extremely generous. This differed from her father, Henry VIII’s attitude.
A well-educated and intelligent woman
She was highly literate, spoke foreign languages and so was able to deal directly with foreign ambassadors.
Married to her people
It is possible that Elizabeth chose to remain unmarried to exploit the relationship she developed with the nation.
A dominant monarch
Elizabeth was always willing to assert her powers. She famously said, ‘I will have one mistress and no master’.
A skilful propagandist
Elizabeth understood the need to create the right image. She was partly responsible for creating a ‘Golden age’ and the ‘Cult of Gloriana’.
Loyal
To those who served her well she was extremely generous. This differed from her father, Henry VIII’s attitude.
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Elizabeth and marriage
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Elizabeth’s key ministers and advisers

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