Spooky Laws and Rescues in Elizabethan England

Page 2: Late Elizabethan Period and Social Reform

The final years of Elizabeth's reign saw continued religious persecution, theatrical censorship, and important social reforms. The 1601 Poor Law Act represented a significant attempt to address poverty, while Thomas Tresham's imprisonment for recusancy fines illustrated the ongoing religious tensions.

Highlight: The Poor Law Act of 1601 established the first comprehensive system of poor relief in England.

Example: The closure of London theatres following a critical play demonstrates Elizabeth's control over public entertainment.

Definition: The East India Company, commanded by James Lancaster, would become a crucial instrument of British colonial power.

Vocabulary: The Privy Council was the monarch's private advisory body.

Quote: Elizabeth's "Golden Speech" of 1601 marked one of her last major public addresses.

Page 1: Religious Persecution and Colonial Expansion

The 1580s marked a period of intense religious conflict and colonial ambition in Elizabethan England. Edmund Campion's anti-Protestant pamphlet and subsequent execution highlighted the growing religious tensions. The period saw significant colonial expansion with Humphrey Gilbert claiming Newfoundland and Walter Raleigh's Virginia charter.

Highlight: Between 1580 and 1587, over 50 Catholic priests were executed, demonstrating the severity of religious persecution.

Example: Margaret Clitherow's death by pressing in 1586 exemplifies the brutal treatment of Catholic recusants.

Definition: Recusancy refers to the refusal to attend Anglican church services, which was illegal during Elizabeth's reign.

Vocabulary: The 'middling sort' refers to the middle class of Elizabethan society.

Quote: "The Act Against Priests" of 1585 marked a significant escalation in anti-Catholic legislation.