Description
Book SynopsisThis book reassesses the religious politics of Elizabethan England through a study of one of its most unusual figures. Sir Christopher Hatton, a royal favourite turned senior minister, was unique among Elizabeth’s leading ministers in being a consistent supporter of English Catholics and perhaps even some kind of Catholic himself. His influence over the queen was a significant factor in restraining the policy preferences of Elizabeth’s more strongly Protestant advisors, particularly as regards the regime’s religious policy. The book traces Hatton’s life and career, his relationship with Elizabeth, his networks and his involvement in politics. It argues that Hatton’s career casts doubt on claims that Elizabeth’s regime was exclusively Protestant in character and suggests that Catholics and Catholic sympathisers retained a voice in Elizabethan politics.
Table of ContentsIntroduction
1 Rising to power at Elizabeth’s court
2 Patronage and religion
3 Religion, reputation and public opinion
4 Domestic and foreign policy
5 Contesting religious policy within the Elizabethan regime
6 Hatton within the Elizabethan regime
Conclusion: Catholicism, conservatism and the Elizabethan regime
Index
