Queen Mary I and Queen Elizabeth

Queen Mary I and Queen Elizabeth

Introduction

Mary I was born on February 18 (1516) and was also known as Mary Tudor who became the Queen of England in 1953. She was known for her attempts to get back to England from a Protestant to Roman Catholicism. There were many who were executed for their religious backgrounds and prominent amongst them is the Archbishop of Cantergury. This has led her to gain the name of Bloody Mary. Later, her successor Elizabeth I (1558-1603) reversed her policies on religion and due to this she was most admired English monarch. It is considered that most of her success was mainly due to the fact that she had the ability to use her power successfully in a man's world. Therefore, in history today she is known for her valor and leadership qualities in the midst of many challenges she faced in that era.

Discussion

Mary I became the queen when there was unrest due to religion and many claimed the right to choose what religion they would follow.The doctrine of Martin Luther was approved by the Protestant reformer. However, when a Protestant moved forward and succeeded and changed the religion of the nation, disorder started. This was mainly due to the fact that nobody wanted to follow the religion of the monarch. Religion and state were two different segments of the society and thus, many groups shaped up due to these revolts. There were the Baptists, Congregationalists and Quakers who formed American Colonies. Queen Mary ruled in a man's world where few people thought it was appropriate for a woman to rule. Her bishop of that time, Gardiner also considered that it was the duty of the king to teach about religion and it couldn't be achieved by woman. Even Mary was brought up in a way that being woman was considered a weakness and shameful. When she became the queen she had to face this on every step of her political career. Her rule was opposed by many and most prominent amongst them was John Knox who opposed her rule like a poison. It was considered unbearable to see a woman dominate, become superior and give decisions about religion and God. The man's world was tough at that time and Mary was never able to forgive her own father for his treatment towards her mother. However, at the same time he ...