The establishment of the Church of England, 1558–c1570 (A-level only) study guide

Study Guide: The Church of England, 1558–c1570

Overview

Understanding the establishment of the Church of England involves examining the political, social, and religious landscape of Elizabethan England. Key themes include the struggle for religious identity, the role of legislation, and the impact of external threats.

Key Themes

1. Religious Divisions: Explore the divisions between Catholics and Protestants, and the impact of these divisions on Elizabeth's policies.
2. Legislative Actions: Analyze the significance of the Acts of Supremacy and Uniformity in shaping the Church of England.
3. Support and Opposition: Identify key supporters of the Settlement, such as moderate Protestants, and opponents, including radical Catholics and Puritans.
4. Challenges to the Settlement: Assess the threats posed by figures like Mary Queen of Scots and events like the Rising of the Northern Earls.

Key Figures

• Elizabeth I: Understand her role and motivations in establishing the Church.
• Mary Queen of Scots: Examine her influence on Catholic opposition.
• Key Bishops and Reformers: Identify influential figures in the Church's re-establishment.

Revision Tips

• Create timelines to visualize key events and their interconnections.
• Compare and contrast the views of different religious factions.
• Practice essay writing to articulate your understanding of the complexities involved in the establishment of the Church.