Living in Fear: An Analysis of Writings by Elizabeth Tudor, 1544-1565
The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the writings of Elizabeth Tudor and determine whether she was aware of the instability of her position in her formative years. I analyze how Elizabeth used language to both conceal and reveal knowledge of her precarious status as a princess-in-waiting. The thesis considers who were the major figures in Elizabeth’s early life and how did their actions and inactions affect her. I examine how the nature of letters changed during the period when Elizabeth’s position was altered from illegitimate to presumptive heir. My major finding is that a close reading of Elizabeth’s letters from 1544 1565 give insights into how the future queen managed to survive a difficult childhood and adolescence at court and away.
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