PUBLIC LECTURE

A Monstrous Regiment of Women: Queenship in Early Modern England?
by Professor Susan Doran

This lecture has been rescheduled and will now take place on 14 September. 

Henry VIII did all he could to sire a son and so prevent a woman succeeding to the throne of England, yet two queens regnant – Mary I and Elizabeth I – ruled England for fifty years from 1553 to 1603. In this talk I first examine Tudor objections to female rule and explain how and why they were overcome. I then discuss how changing gendered assumptions have affected the reputations of Elizabeth and Mary over time. Finally, I consider the nature of queenship by looking closely at the two monarchs. Were they able to exercise the same prerogatives and powers as ruling kings? Could they fulfil their dynastic responsibilities without losing power to a husband? What kind of image could a queen project that combined power with femininity?

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Please note that due to COVID 19 restrictions this event will be online only. 

Attendance by Live Stream:

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• Open to anyone to join, Fellows and Non-Fellows.
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• The event will begin at 13.00, BST.
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