Chapter 23 - Religious Developments and the Golden Age

Question 1

How were Elizabeth’s previous religious developments viewed?

Answer 1

• From the Queen’s perspective, state of religion in 1563 was broadly positive - she had achieved the settlement she largely desired
• However, there was much concern among both higher and lower clergy regarding the apparently unreformed nature of the Church
• Equally, Catholics, although not subject to persecution, found it difficult to practice their faith in public
• The key issue was whether the settlement was to be regarded as “complete” or whether there was scope for further change
• Against this background, Puritanism emerged amongst those who considered the settlement incomplete

Question 2

How did Anglicans view the religious settlement?

Answer 2

They accepted it

Question 3

What is Puritanism?

Answer 3

• Belief amongst Godly Protestants that the Church of England needed to be purged of any remaining “superstitious” (i.e. Catholic practices)
• Arose after the 1563 Convocation of Canterbury failed to go further in its reform of the Church

Question 4

How did Elizabeth deal with Puritans in 1566?

Answer 4

• Instigated the Vestiarian Controversy - occurred when Archbishop Parker issued his Advertisements making certain vestments compulsory
• This angered Puritans, particularly in London, and some Puritan ministers were deprived of their livings