The restoration of Papal Authority, 1553–1558 (A-level only) common mistakes

Common mistakes

• Confusing Mary I's aims with those of Edward VI

  Students often confuse Mary I's restoration of Catholicism with Edward VI's Protestant reforms.

  Fix itFocus on the distinct religious policies of each monarch, noting that Mary sought to reverse Edward's Protestant reforms.

• Confusing the roles of Mary I and her predecessors

  Students often conflate Mary I's actions with those of Henry VIII or Edward VI, failing to recognize her unique position and objectives.

  Fix itFocus on the specific context of Mary I's reign and her distinct efforts to restore Catholicism, rather than generalizing her actions with those of earlier monarchs.

• Confusing the motives behind persecution

  Students often attribute the persecution solely to political motives rather than religious ones.

  Fix itEmphasize that the primary motive was the restoration of Catholicism and the elimination of Protestantism as a religious threat.

• Confusing the causes of opposition

  Students often attribute opposition solely to religious reasons without considering political motivations.

  Fix itAcknowledge both religious and political factors when discussing opposition to Mary I's policies.