AQA GCSE HISTORY: ELIZABETHAN ENGLAND, C1568-1603 | ANSWERS

1 Elizabeth I, her court, and the difficulties of being a female ruler

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about Elizabeth’s reasons for not marrying?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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An example of a Level 1 answer

Interpretation A is convincing. It says that political reasons were more important than fear of marriage in Elizabeth’s reasons for not marrying. Her sister, Mary, had married Philip of Spain and that had proved deeply unpopular and unsuccessful.

An example of a Level 2 answer

Interpretation A is convincing. It says that political reasons were more important than fear of marriage in Elizabeth’s reasons for not marrying. Her sister, Mary, had married Philip of Spain and that had proved deeply unpopular and unsuccessful. Elizabeth could not afford to make the same mistake, as she had enemies all around and her claim to the throne was weak. Marriage could strengthen Elizabeth’s position, but it had to be the right marriage.

An example of a Level 3 answer

Interpretation A is somewhat convincing. It says that political reasons were more important than fear of marriage in Elizabeth’s reasons for not marrying. Elizabeth was surrounded by enemies and powerful men, and the right marriage could strengthen her position, but the wrong one could prove politically disastrous. She had seen that her sister Mary’s marriage to Philip of Spain had been deeply unpopular and unsuccessful. Also, although she never expected to be Queen, Elizabeth was well-educated and capable, and it is true that she probably didn’t want to share her newfound power with a husband.

It is less convincing because Elizabeth’s early life experiences must have had a big impact on her perception of marriage and made her afraid of it. Henry VIII annulled his first marriage in search of a male heir and then executed his second wife, Elizabeth’s mother, Anne Boleyn. His third wife, Jane Seymour, died producing his male heir.

An example of a Level 4 answer

Interpretation A argues that political reasons were more important than fear of marriage in Elizabeth’s reasons for not marrying. It is true that the wrong marriage could be politically disastrous and weaken her position, and Elizabeth had seen that her sister Mary’s marriage to Philip of Spain had been deeply unpopular and unsuccessful. However, there were also important political reasons for Elizabeth to marry: she had a weak claim to the throne and was surrounded by enemies and powerful men trying to influence her; the right marriage could strengthen her position, potentially improve England’s relationship with another country, and give her an heir. On balance, I think that political issues were a reason to embrace marriage rather than fear it, so this makes Interpretation A less convincing.

Interpretation A does not think that Elizabeth’s fear of marriage would have strongly influenced her, but I think this is unconvincing and that Elizabeth’s early life experiences must have had a big impact on her perception of marriage and would have weighed far more heavily than any political reasons for not marrying. Henry VIII annulled his first marriage in search of a male heir and then executed his second wife, Elizabeth’s mother, Anne Boleyn. His third wife died producing his male heir. Childbirth was very dangerous, and Elizabeth must have been afraid of dying in childbirth or being mistreated by her husband. This would have made her reluctant to get married.

2 Explain what was important about Elizabeth’s gender when she came to power. (8)

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An example of a Level 1 answer

Elizabeth was a female ruler in a world where men usually held the power. Her gender was important because it meant people assumed she would be an unsuccessful leader, like her sister.

An example of a Level 2 answer

Elizabeth was a female ruler in a world where men usually held the power. Her gender was important, because it was commonly thought that women should not rule over men. Her sister, Mary, had proven to be an unpopular and unsuccessful queen, showing that female rulers were not a good thing. This made people suspicious of how good a ruler Elizabeth could be.

An example of a Level 3 answer

Elizabeth was a female ruler in a world where men usually held the power. Her gender was important, because it was commonly thought that women should not rule over men. Her sister, Mary, had proven to be an unpopular and unsuccessful queen, and for some people, this confirmed their view that women could not rule successfully. This meant that Elizabeth probably faced extra hostility when she came to power because of her gender.

Elizabeth’s gender was also important because of the need to provide an heir. She would have to give birth and this would be very dangerous; Jane Seymour had died giving birth to Prince Edward in 1537. This was probably one reason why Elizabeth was reluctant to marry and also why Parliament put a lot of pressure on her to marry.

An example of a Level 4 answer

Elizabeth was a female ruler in a world where men usually held the power. Her gender was important, because it was commonly thought that women should not rule over men. Her sister, Mary, had proven to be an unpopular and unsuccessful queen, and for some influential and powerful men (who could challenge Elizabeth’s authority), this confirmed their view that women could not rule successfully. Because of her gender, when she came to power, Elizabeth may have felt she needed to be especially assertive and decisive, and this may have affected how she ruled, for example, by swiftly disposing of anyone who threatened her.

Elizabeth’s gender was also important because of the expectations it placed on her. Firstly, she was expected to provide an heir to secure the succession, but childbirth could be very dangerous. Elizabeth knew this was the case because her father’s third wife, Jane Seymour, died giving birth to Prince Edward in 1537. It was also expected that a wife would be ruled by her husband in all things, and therefore Elizabeth would have to share her power if she married. Elizabeth was reluctant to give up her power and independence, but Parliament was keen for her to marry and secure an heir, and this led to considerable tension between Parliament and Elizabeth when she came to power, especially as she entered her thirties.

3 Write an account of how Elizabeth’s early life impacted on her as a monarch. (8)

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An example of a Level 1 answer

Elizabeth had lost her mother to execution and her stepmother to childbirth, so she did not want to get married.

An example of a Level 2 answer

Parliament declared Elizabeth illegitimate, so she was not raised to rule, and some people did not believe she should rule. This meant that when she became monarch, she had to assert her authority. As a child, Elizabeth lost her mother to execution and her stepmother to childbirth, so Elizabeth did not want to get married either and risk dying in childbirth or losing her power to a husband.

An example of a Level 3 answer

Elizabeth’s early life impacted her reign in two major ways. She was born to Anne Boleyn after Henry VIII had annulled his first marriage. Anne was then executed for treason and Henry remarried, and as a result Parliament declared Elizabeth illegitimate. She was therefore not raised to rule, and some people did not believe she should rule. She had to work hard to assert her authority as a monarch and had to act decisively against those who threatened or questioned her rule.

When she was young, Elizabeth lost her mother to execution and her stepmother, Jane Seymour, to childbirth. This contributed to her being reluctant to marry and risk dying in childbirth or losing her power to a husband. As a monarch, this caused tension with Parliament and her councillors, who were keen for her to marry and secure a Protestant heir.

An example of a Level 4 answer

Elizabeth’s early life impacted her reign in two major ways. She was born to Anne Boleyn in 1533 after Henry VIII had annulled his first marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Anne was then executed for treason in 1536 and Henry quickly remarried. As a result, Elizabeth was declared illegitimate by Parliament and was not prepared to rule England. She was therefore, not considered fit to rule in the eyes of Catholics and faced rebellions throughout her reign. As a monarch, she had to act assertively and decisively against those who threatened or questioned her rule – including arresting members of her own Parliament – in order to keep her power and silence any doubt.

When she was young, Elizabeth lost her mother to execution and her stepmother, Jane Seymour, to childbirth. This contributed to her being reluctant to marry and risk dying in childbirth or losing her power to a husband. Yet it was her duty in the eyes of society (and her government) to marry and produce an heir to secure her throne. The right marriage could also strengthen an alliance with another country or one of England’s noble houses. This caused tension with Parliament and her councillors, who made Elizabeth furious discussing potential husbands. Elizabeth knew how unpopular and unsuccessful her sister Mary’s marriage to King Philip of Spain had been and did not want to make the same mistake.

2 A ‘Golden Age’

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about the ‘Golden Age’ of Elizabethan England?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A challenges the concept of an Elizabethan ‘Golden Age’, calling it a ‘myth’.
• It is true that brutal blood sports, such as dog fighting and bear baiting, remained popular. It is also true that only a small minority really benefitted from the ‘Golden Age’: the nobility and gentry.
• However, Interpretation A dismisses the positives of the ‘Golden Age’: the breakthroughs in science and technology that enabled military success against Spain, and the rise of theatre as a popular entertainment.
• Interpretation A convincingly highlights the social inequality of the ‘Golden Age’, but it is wrong to dismiss its advances entirely.

2 Explain what was important about changes to the theatre in Elizabethan England. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Religious ‘mystery plays’ were replaced by non-religious plays, such as vulgar comedies, that increased the popular appeal of theatre.
• Nobles patronised theatre companies to show their culture and status. The Queen was also a keen theatre-goer, raising the status of theatre.
• Prices to the theatre varied depending on where you sat (or stood), making tickets available to everyone regardless of their wealth.

3 Write an account of how the Elizabethan government was structured. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabeth’s government was dominated by a small number of powerful men who influenced her and there was a clear structure to her government.
• Parliament consisted of the House of Lords (bishops and nobles) and House of Commons (wealthy MPs). It granted taxes and passed laws, but Elizabeth did not have to listen to its advice. The most powerful lords were appointed by Elizabeth to her Privy Council, which ran the country.
• Local government was led by Lord Lieutenants and Justices of the Peace. Lord Lieutenants were appointed by Elizabeth to administer areas and raise the militia. JPs were selected from the local gentry to enforce law and order.

3 The poor

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about the reasons for Elizabethan charitable giving?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A suggests that charitable giving was done to gain personal prestige and status as much as to help those living in poverty.
• It is true that the nobility set up almshouses to leave a lasting legacy, and to demonstrate their importance and good character. The idea that those with wealth cared more about their own reputation than about truly helping those living in poverty is supported by the bad treatment at the time of the ‘undeserving poor’, who were treated as criminals.
• However, there are clear examples of advances in Elizabethan England that primarily aimed to help those in poverty rather than to boost the status of the nobility, such as the Act for Setting the Poor on Work and the introduction of training schemes for children in poverty.
• There were certainly social benefits to being seen as charitable, but the interpretation ignores the trend in Elizabethan England towards recognising the plight of those in poverty and actively trying to support them.

2 Explain what was important about attitudes towards people living in poverty in Elizabethan England. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabethan England divided those living in poverty into the ‘deserving poor’ and ‘undeserving poor’. There was increased recognition of the need to support the ‘deserving poor’, which led to the introduction of new laws like the Act for Setting the Poor on Work and the Poor Law.
• There was a greater expectation that those with wealth would help those living in poverty, and that this would bring them status and prestige. This led wealthy people to set up almshouses.
• However, a lingering fear that those in poverty might rise up against the nobles and gentry meant that harsh punishments for the ‘undeserving poor’ remained. For example, ‘houses of correction’ were set up.

3 Write an account of the changes that made Elizabeth’s reign ‘golden’. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• The key cause of Elizabeth’s ‘Golden Age’ was increasing exploration and military success against Spain. This was made possible through breakthroughs in science and technology.
• Increasing wealth from exploration and military victories led to the rise of the gentry: wealthy country landowners who profited from trade to become influential. Stately homes were built to show off this wealth, and education for wealthy boys improved.
• This was accompanied by a boom in the arts, influenced by the Renaissance. Portraits became increasingly important, poetry flourished, and the theatre became hugely popular. Many theatres were built.

4 English sailors

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about Drake’s motivations for exploration?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A suggests that wealth and status were Drake’s main motivations for exploration.
• It is true that Drake gained both wealth and prestige for circumnavigating the globe: he brought back treasures worth roughly £200 million in today’s money and was knighted for his exploration.
• However, Interpretation A ignores other reasons for Drake’s exploration, and the excitement of the ‘age of exploration’. The main reason for his trip was that Elizabeth wanted him to raid Spanish ports on the west coast of South America.
• Interpretation A is convincing in that Drake gained much from his exploration, but it does not acknowledge other motivating factors.

2 Explain what was important about Elizabethan voyages of ‘discovery’. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

Instead of focusing on individual explorers, another way to structure this answer could be to focus on what those explorers brought to England: wealth, power, and territory.

• John Hawkins’ exploration was important because it led to England’s involvement in the trade of enslaved Africans, and also because Hawkins became responsible for building up the Royal Navy.
• Francis Drake’s exploration brought much wealth and prestige to England. It also played a vital role in England’s conflict with Spain as it delayed the arrival of the Spanish Armada.
• Walter Raleigh was instrumental in England’s first attempts to colonise Roanoke Island. Although these attempts ultimately failed, they laid the grounds for success 20 years later and the eventual build-up of the British Empire.

3 Write an account of the reasons for an increase in poverty in Elizabethan England. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Henry VII laid the foundations for poverty in Elizabethan England by banning private armies, making many soldiers unemployed. Henry VIII worsened the situation by closing the monasteries, which meant that the people in them lost their jobs and that there was less support for people who were sick or living in poverty.
• Henry VIII reduced the value of England’s coins, leading to rising prices and damaging trade. Under his son, Edward VI, the vital cloth industry collapsed, causing yet more unemployment.
• During Elizabeth’s reign, bad harvests led to food shortages. Coupled with a rising population, this led to increased food prices and therefore an increase in poverty.

5 Religious matters

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about the challenges to Elizabeth’s religious policies?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A suggests that Elizabeth viewed the threat of foreign Catholic powers as the most significant challenge to her religious policies.
• There was certainly a need to placate Catholic Europe: the Pope excommunicated Elizabeth, calling on all Catholics to seek to end her reign. France and Spain supported various challenges to her reign, including Douai College and the Jesuits.
• However, there were challenges within England: Elizabeth faced four Catholic plots and rebellions over religion and challenges from Puritans who wanted even more Protestant reforms.
• There were challenges from both within and outside England to Elizabeth’s religious policies, but the support of Spain and France in the religious plots and resistance she faced makes Interpretation A convincing.

2 Explain what was important about the papal bull of excommunication. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church. His excommunication of Elizabeth called on all loyal Catholics to end her reign.
• Intended to coincide with the Northern Rebellion, the papal bull encouraged English Catholics – such as Throckmorton and Babington – to attempt to assassinate Elizabeth, with ‘God’ on their side.
• The papal bull also encouraged the Catholic powers of Europe to support attempts to overthrow Elizabeth. France and Spain were involved in the Throckmorton Plot, and the Ridolfi Plot was led by an Italian.

3 Write an account of how Elizabethan voyages of exploration benefitted England. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• English explorers brought great riches back to England, building the foundations of a powerful trading empire: Drake brought back Spanish treasures worth around £200 million in today’s money.
• English exploration encouraged the development of English naval power, and Hawkins was responsible for building up the Royal Navy. His and Drake’s experiences were vital in the struggle against Catholic Spain.
• English exploration led to the establishment of new colonies in Nova Albion and Roanoke Island. Although these attempts failed initially, the experience formed the basis of the successful empire-building of the next few centuries.

6 Mary Queen of Scots

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about the threat posed by Mary Queen of Scots to Elizabeth I?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A suggests that the threat posed to Elizabeth was serious and that many Catholics saw Mary as the rightful queen of England.
• It is true that Mary presented a legitimate alternative to Elizabeth and had Catholic France’s support. Mary became the focus of several plots against Elizabeth and believed she was the rightful queen of England.
• However, there is little evidence that Mary was directly involved in the plots against Elizabeth. She was disgraced by the rumours of her involvement in Lord Darnley’s death, and she had limited power to act while imprisoned in England.
• Interpretation A is convincing in that Mary’s claim was a direct threat to Elizabeth, but Mary’s circumstances meant that in practice, her threat was very limited.

2 Explain what was important about Mary Queen of Scots’ imprisonment in England. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Mary Queen of Scots had a strong claim to the English throne and was Catholic. Her imprisonment put Elizabeth in an awkward position, as some Privy Councillors called for Mary’s immediate execution.
• Mary became a figurehead for rebel Catholics in England and was the focus of several plots against Elizabeth. For example, the Duke of Norfolk plotted to marry her, which would have undermined Elizabeth’s position.
• Mary had the support of Catholic France, which posed a direct threat to Elizabeth if she acted against Mary. Mary was caught conspiring with Anthony Babington and eventually executed for treason, leading to further tensions with France and Spain.

3 Write an account of the challenges to Elizabeth’s religious settlement. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabeth was Protestant, but she was keen to compromise and heal the divisions in England. However, the papal bull of excommunication called on all Catholics to seek to end her reign. As a result, there were several Catholic plots against her.
• Catholic France and Spain supported these challenges to Elizabeth. They also encouraged the Douai college and Jesuits to send missionaries into England to convert Protestants to Catholicism and to ferment rebellion.
• Elizabeth faced challenges from Puritans who felt she should do more to support Protestantism. This led to various clashes with Puritan clergy and groups of extreme Protestants.

7 Conflict with Spain

1 How convincing is Interpretation A about the reasons for English success against the Armada?
Explain your answer using Interpretation A and your contextual knowledge. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Interpretation A suggests that the modernisation of the Royal Navy and its leadership were the main reasons for English success against the Armada.
• Improvements to English galleons in the 1570s had made them easier and faster to manoeuvre than the heavy Spanish ships, while smaller gun carriages led to faster reloading times and a greater rate of fire.
• However, the English inflicted little damage during their initial engagements with the Spanish fleet. Although the Battle of Gravelines was decisive, it was the storms in the North Sea that were instrumental in the destruction of the Spanish fleet.
• Although Interpretation A does not mention the other factors in English success, it is convincing because the Royal Navy’s modernisation and Drake’s tactics led to success in the decisive Battle of Gravelines.

2 Explain what was important about the defeat of the Spanish Armada. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• The English victory was decisive and humiliating for Philip of Spain. There was little appetite in Spain for a second Armada, meaning that the threat from Spain was effectively over.
• The victory was a pivotal moment for Elizabeth as it demonstrated that England was a major world power, and also that God was on Elizabeth’s side.
• The victory cemented the idea of an Elizabethan ‘Golden Age’, uniting England as Catholicism became linked with Spanish aggression. English Catholics began to put country before faith, helping cement Protestantism in England.

3 Write an account of how the Babington Plot led to the execution of Mary Queen of Scots. (8)

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Relevant points that could be included

• The Act for the Preservation of the Queen’s Safety set up the legal framework for punishing Mary for treason. Walsingham’s spy network just needed to find evidence of her involvement.
• Babington and Mary corresponded via coded letters, with Mary agreeing to ‘set the gentlemen to work’ killing the queen. Mary’s servants, who passed the letters, were actually Walsingham’s spies.
• When presented with the evidence, Parliament called for Mary’s arrest and trial. Elizabeth eventually agreed, and Mary was sentenced to death. Elizabeth reluctantly signed the death warrant over three months later.

8 Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall

1 ‘The main change that Elizabethan country houses demonstrated was the stability and security of Elizabethan England.’
How far does a study of Hardwick Hall support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Hardwick Hall and your contextual knowledge. (16)

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An example of a Level 1 answer

Elizabeth’s reign was a ‘Golden Age’ of peace and stability, as shown by the Elizabethan country houses. Hardwick Hall is a good example of this, with its huge lattice windows that would have been no good for defending the hall from attack.

An example of a Level 2 answer

Elizabeth’s reign was a ‘Golden Age’ of peace and stability, demonstrated by the development of Elizabethan country houses. Many stately homes were built by the gentry and nobility to show off their status and to impress, rather than being for defence. Hardwick Hall is a good example of this and one of the grandest houses of the period. Its huge lattice windows made it ‘more window than wall’, which was no good for defending from attack, but excellent for showing wealth and luxury – particularly because glass was so expensive.

An example of a Level 3 answer

Elizabeth’s reign was a ‘Golden Age’ of peace and stability, demonstrated by the development of Elizabethan country houses. Many stately homes were built by the rising gentry and wealthy nobility to show off their status and to impress, rather than being designed for defence. Hardwick Hall is a good example of this as one of the grandest houses of the period. It was covered in huge lattice windows that would have been very expensive to install because glass was so costly, which would have shown off Bess of Hardwick’s wealth and status but made it harder to defend the hall from attack.

Another change that Elizabethan country houses demonstrated was the latest architectural fashions. For example, the use of symmetry was fashionable at the time and the chimneys in Hardwick Hall were unusually placed inside the internal walls to make the hall symmetrical. Also, the open walkway at the front and the geometric plasterwork inside was inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture.

By placing comfort and showing off above defence, Elizabethan country houses did demonstrate England’s security and stability.

An example of a Level 4 answer

Elizabeth’s reign was a ‘Golden Age’ of peace and stability, demonstrated by the development of Elizabethan country houses. Many stately homes were built by the rising gentry and wealthy nobility to show off their status and to impress, rather than being designed for defence. Hardwick Hall is a good example of this as one of the grandest houses of the period. It was covered in huge lattice windows that would have been very expensive to install because glass was so costly, which would have shown off Bess of Hardwick’s wealth and status but made it harder to defend the hall from attack. As the richest woman in England, Bess of Hardwick might have felt threatened or targeted in a less peaceful time, but defence was not her main priority (or Robert Smythson’s) when building Hardwick Hall.

Another change that Elizabethan country houses demonstrated was the latest architectural fashions. For example, the use of symmetry was fashionable at the time and the chimneys in Hardwick Hall were unusually placed inside the internal walls to make the hall symmetrical. The geometric plasterwork and decorative stonework outside reflected the latest Italian Renaissance fashions, as did the open walkway at the front of the hall.

But the key thing about Elizabethan country houses was to showcase the owner’s wealth and status, which Hardwick Hall did excellently. With Bess’ fourth marriage securing her place in the nobility as Countess of Shrewsbury, and an eye for a royal marriage for her daughter, Bess’s new home left no doubts as to who owned Hardwick Hall. Built on a hill to dominate the local area, her initials were displayed on the stonework for all to see for miles around. Inside, the portraits and decorations such as the overmantel also showed off family connections.

So Elizabethan country houses did demonstrate England’s stability and security, and this security also allowed their owners to safely showcase their wealth, culture, and status. Hardwick Hall is an excellent example of aristocratic showing off!

2 ‘The main purpose of Elizabethan country houses was to display the owner’s self-importance.’
How far does a study of Hardwick Hall support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Hardwick Hall and your contextual knowledge. (16)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Hardwick Hall was built on a hill dominating the local area, allowing the spectacular house – and owner Bess of Hardwick’s initials as Elizabeth Shrewsbury – to be seen for miles around. The newly created Countess wanted everyone to know her status.
• Elizabethan country houses also showcased the owner’s wealth, as shown at Hardwick Hall through the extensive lattice windows (glass was fairly new and expensive to use extensively), elaborate decoration, and many chimneys (showing Bess could afford to keep lots of fires going).
• Elizabethan country houses also showcased the owner’s culture and sense of fashion, as shown at Hardwick Hall through its symmetry, geometric plasterwork, decorative stonework, and loggia walkway.
• Hardwick Hall does show the main purpose of Elizabethan country houses as being to showcase the owner’s status or self-importance, which includes displaying their wealth and understanding of culture and fashion.

9 Historic Environment: The Globe Theatre

1 ‘The plays were the main reason for the popularity of theatres in Elizabethan England.’
How far does a study of The Globe Theatre support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to The Globe Theatre and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• Religious ‘mystery plays’ were replaced by non-religious plays, such as vulgar comedies, which were more popular and could attract queues of hundreds. Many Elizabethan plays are still performed today, such as those of William Shakespeare.
• At the start of Elizabeth’s reign, plays were performed in inns and tavern yards. During her reign more purpose-built theatres appeared, such as the Globe Theatre. These could hold bigger audiences and also allowed for more scene changes and special effects.
• Theatre became more popular among nobles and the gentry during Elizabethan England, partly because it became more fashionable (Elizabeth was a keen theatre-goer) and partly because purpose-built theatres gave them comfortable seats that were separated from the lower classes (such as in the Globe Theatre).
• The Globe Theatre shows that there was more to the rise in popularity of theatres than the excellent plays produced. It is likely that more elaborate performances and tickets for all social classes also helped.

2 ‘Elizabethan theatre was the main change during the Elizabethan ‘Golden Age.’’
How far does a study of The Globe Theatre support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to The Globe Theatre and your contextual knowledge. (16)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabethan theatre underwent a surge in popularity due, in part, to a shift from religious to more vulgar comedic plays, with a rise in the number of purpose-built theatres being constructed (such as the Globe Theatre). Theatre changed from being an entertainment for poorer people to being for all social classes (as shown by the different ticket prices and types of seating in the Globe Theatre).
• Another change in the Elizabethan ‘Golden Age’ was the rise of the gentry and an increase in the wealth of the gentry and nobles, due to increased exploration and trade. Patronage from wealthy nobles supported theatre companies, encouraged by Elizabeth’s approval of the theatre. The Lords’ rooms at the Globe Theatre were for nobles to be seen at the theatre rather than to see the play.
• Another change in the Elizabeth ‘Golden Age’ was breakthroughs in science and technology, leading to successful exploration and naval domination. The rise of purpose-built theatres allowed this ingenuity to come to Elizabethan theatres, as shown by the clever scene changes, dramatic entrances, and special effects available at the Globe Theatre.
• The rise in theatre was only one part of the Elizabethan ‘Golden Age’, but it showcases many of the social changes brought about by it.

10 Historic Environment: The defeat of the Spanish Armada

1 ‘Luck was the main reason for success in battle during the Elizabethan period.’
How far does a study of the Spanish Armada support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to the Spanish Armada and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• Luck is a vital factor in battle, as shown by the role of the weather in the English defeat of the Spanish Armada. The English were also lucky in that the delay faced by the Spanish ships in leaving Calais gave the English more time to prepare.
• Superior technology also led to success in battle. England had faster ships that could manoeuvre and fire more quickly than Spain’s ships, which contributed to Spain’s defeat in the Battle of Gravelines.
• Strong leadership also contributed to success in battle. Francis Drake was a skilled and experienced commander, while the Duke of Medina-Sidonia was inexperienced and limited by Philip II’s instructions. This contributed to the defeat of the Spanish Armada.
• Luck certainly played a vital role in destroying the Spanish Armada and ensuring a lasting victory, but English naval superiority and Spanish weaknesses also played important roles.

2 ‘The main reason for Drake’s success was his skill as a leader.’
How far does a study of the Spanish Armada support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to the Spanish Armada and your contextual knowledge. (16)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Drake showed great leadership during the Armada, exploiting the superior navy Hawkins had built up. A proven commander, his attack on Cadiz brought England valuable time and weakened the Spanish forces.
• However, Drake was aided by Spanish mistakes. The Spanish ships were inferior, overcrowded with non-sailors, and did not expect to be challenged at sea. Their commander was inexperienced and limited by Philip II’s instructions.
• Drake was also lucky. Fireships broke up the Spanish fleet, and heavy bombardment at Gravelines stopped the Spanish regrouping, but it was the storms in the North Sea that destroyed the fleet and ensured a lasting victory.
• Drake’s skills as a leader were a vital part of his success. However, the Armada was not his only success; it was the success of the Hawkins’ navy and the other British commanders. Drake was also aided by luck, and Spain made mistakes.

11 Historic Environment: Kenilworth Castle

1 ‘The main reason for building a stately home in the Elizabethan period was comfort.’
How far does a study of Kenilworth Castle support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Kenilworth Castle and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• After Robert Dudley developed Kenilworth Castle, it had many features designed for comfort, such as huge fireplaces throughout, extra accommodation for visitors, and a garden designed to look like paradise.
• Elizabethan stately homes were also built to showcase the owner’s wealth, as shown at Kenilworth Castle by the large lattice windows, and the impressive gatehouse and bridge into the deer park. The many fireplaces also showed Dudley could afford to keep lots of fires going.
• However, Kenilworth Castle was mostly designed to impress Elizabeth on her visits, as Dudley hoped to marry her. A new tower was added in 1572, specifically for her, and Dudley included all the latest Renaissance styles.
• Kenilworth Castle was certainly built for comfort, but more specifically for Elizabeth’s comfort, as Dudley sought to court Elizabeth and impress her with his wealth and taste.

2 ‘The main priority when designing an Elizabethan stately home was showing the owner’s status.’
How far does a study of Kenilworth Castle support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Kenilworth Castle and your contextual knowledge. (16)

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Relevant points that could be included

• Kenilworth Castle was developed to showcase Dudley’s status as a potential suitor to Elizabeth, who visited numerous times and stayed for 19 days on one occasion. A new tower was added specifically for her, with a large dancing chamber overlooking the lake.
• Elizabethan stately homes also showed the owner’s wealth, as shown at Kenilworth Castle by the large lattice windows, and the impressive gatehouse and bridge into the deer park. The many fireplaces also showed Dudley could afford to keep lots of fires going.
• Elizabethan stately homes also showed the owner’s understanding of culture and fashion. The symmetrical garden at Kenilworth Castle showcased Greek and Roman elements in popular Renaissance styles, and Dudley also added decorative stonework in the latest Renaissance styles.
• Kenilworth Castle was very much developed to showcase Dudley’s status as Earl of Leicester, a key member of the royal court, and a suitable suitor for Elizabeth.

12 Historic Environment: Burghley’s Almshouses at Stamford

1 ‘The main reason for building almshouses was personal status.’
How far does a study of Burghley’s Almshouses support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Burghley’s Almshouses and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabethan England saw a rise in poverty, and people with wealth were expected to help those who were worse off than them. Building almshouses was a way of showing good character, status, and leaving a family legacy: these were all motivations for Burghley when he built his almshouses.
• The almshouses also provided practical benefits. Dressed in Burghley’s colours, residents had to serve Burghley and his family four times a year. They also had to serve Burghley’s heirs, providing for his successors.
• There was also a religious motivation to helping the poor, and Burghley was influenced by the Puritan idea of giving food and shelter, as well as teaching those in poverty to become good Christians.
• Building almshouses certainly gave nobles extra status and prestige, but religious motivations and rising poverty across England were also important reasons for the rise in almshouses.

2 ‘The main reason for building almshouses in Elizabethan England was religious beliefs.’
How far does a study of Burghley’s Almshouses support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Burghley’s Almshouses and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

Relevant points that could be included

• There was strong religious motivation to helping the poor in Elizabethan England, and Burghley was influenced by the Puritan idea of giving food and shelter, as well as teaching those in poverty to become good Christians.
• Rising poverty in Elizabethan England was coupled with a rising awareness of the need to tackle it by helping the ‘deserving poor’. Burghley and other nobles built almshouses as one way to help the ‘deserving poor’.
• There were practical benefits to building almshouses. In Burghley’s almshouses, residents had to serve Burghley and his family four times a year, and offer service to Burghley’s heirs.
• There were practical benefits for the founders of almshouses, but religious ideas of charity – coupled with a growing understanding that it was important to try to tackle the rise in poverty – was an important reason for building almshouses.

13 Historic Environment: Sheffield Manor Lodge

1 ‘The main reason to develop Elizabethan manor houses was to display the wealth of their owners.’
How far does a study of Sheffield Manor Lodge support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Sheffield Manor Lodge and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabethan manor houses were certainly developed to showcase the owner’s wealth as part of the Elizabethan ‘Golden Age’. This was shown at Sheffield Manor Lodge when the lavishly decorated Turret House was added to the already very large main building.
• However, Sheffield Manor Lodge was expanded because it was to house Mary Queen of Scots, whose horde of attendants required royal accommodation. The Turret House contained ‘Mary’s Room’, which was decorated in Mary’s heraldry.
• Shrewsbury was a high-ranking nobleman of immense wealth, but he lost his career, his fortune, and his wife partly due to his role as Mary’s host or gaoler. Sheffield Manor Lodge was chosen because it was away from the prying eyes of London society, and also far from England’s borders.
• Sheffield Manor Lodge certainly displayed the wealth of the Earl of Shrewsbury, but was mainly developed to host Mary Queen of Scots.

2 ‘The main change that Elizabethan stately homes demonstrated was a greater desire for comfort among the nobility.’
How far does a study of Sheffield Manor Lodge support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to Sheffield Manor Lodge and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

Relevant points that could be included

• Elizabethan stately homes were built for comfort and extravagance rather than for defence because of the stability and peace Elizabeth’s reign brought. Sheffield Manor Lodge hosted a variety of rooms and features to help make visitors comfortable whatever their needs, including stables, a wine cellar, a chapel, and courtyards with gardens and fountains.
• However, Sheffield Manor Lodge was expanded because it was to house Mary Queen of Scots, whose horde of attendants required royal accommodation. The Lodge had to befit her royal status, for if she outlived Elizabeth she would become Queen.
• Sheffield Manor Lodge was chosen because it was away from the prying eyes of London society, and also far from England’s borders. Shrewsbury was a high-ranking nobleman of immense wealth, but he lost his career, fortune, and wife due to hosting Mary.
• Sheffield Manor Lodge was designed for comfort, but the royal comfort expected by a queen rather than that expected by the nobility.

14 Historic Environment: The Americas and Drake’s circumnavigation

1 ‘The main reason for exploration during the Elizabethan era was to challenge Spain.’
How far does a study of the Americas and Drake’s circumnavigation support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to the Americas and Drake’s circumnavigation and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

A sample answer at Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 is provided for the question about the Historic Environment: Hardwick Hall.

Relevant points that could be included

• Drake had good reason to want to challenge Spain after the Spanish attacked his voyage with Hawkins. Elizabeth hired him as a privateer in 1572, but his orders—kept secret—were to attack Spanish ports in South America.
• The Elizabethan period was part of the Age of Discovery, and Drake’s exploration was a part of the adventures and excitement of the age. He was only the second person to circumnavigate the globe and was knighted for his efforts.
• Explorers were motivated by the desire to seek greater riches and new trade routes. Drake brought great wealth back, both for himself and for England: roughly £200 million in today’s money. He collected spices and other goods to trade.
• Spain was a major threat to Elizabethan England and challenging Spain was a major motivation for Drake’s voyage in 1577, but it is far from the only reason for Elizabethan explorations.

2 ‘The main benefit of exploration during the Elizabethan era was personal wealth.’
How far does a study of the Americas and Drake’s circumnavigation support this statement? Explain your answer. You should refer to the Americas and Drake’s circumnavigation and your contextual knowledge. (16)

Mark scheme

Relevant points that could be included

• Drake brought great wealth back from his circumnavigation of the globe, both for himself and for England: roughly £200 million in today’s money. He collected spices and other goods to trade and was knighted by Elizabeth on his return to England.
• Another benefit of exploration was to extend England’s reach and power by colonising new areas and creating profitable trade routes. Drake claimed Nova Albion for Elizabeth during his circumnavigation.
• One of the most significant benefits of exploration for England was the opportunity to challenge Spain. Drake, hired by Elizabeth in 1572 as a privateer, embarked on a secret mission to attack Spanish ports in South America. His successful raids brought wealth to England and showed that England could compete with Spain on the global stage, igniting a sense of thrill and competition.
• Drake gained great wealth and status through his exploits, but he also had to share that wealth with his investors, especially Elizabeth. England also gained much from exploration.