Topic: Elizabeth and William Cecil Confer: Assessing the Political Opportunities and Threats In the Matter of Mary, Queen of Scots
Perhaps no confrontation reveals more intensely the political conflicts of early modern Europe in the late sixteenth century than that of Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth I. Their conflict involves power politics, international threats, foreign powers, domestic politics, religion, gender, power, propaganda, intrigue, deception, adultery, murder, treason, and, in the end, the death of a queen. This second paper asks you to take assessment of Queen Elizabeth I’s position. Pressures from all sides arise to influence her decision on what to do with her cousin Mary, who quite unexpectedly has fallen into her hands. The opportunity presents unfathomable dangers — and unimaginable opportunities for Elizabeth’s authority and reign. In this paper you are asked to revisit Elizabeth in her assessment of the evidence – broadly conceived – that pertains to the trial of Mary Queen of Scots. She will be conferring closely with William Cecil on the matter. The documents she considers are those read in this course so far and those in Jayne Elizabeth Lewis, The Trial of Mary Queen of Scots – all that might have some bearing upon Elizabeth’s decision making. What would be Elizabeth assessment of the wider political world of Europe? What wider dangers might she fear if she executes her cousin? What might be the greater advantages to her and England if she does so?