Introduction
Elizabeth I, the last Tudor monarch, reigned over England from 1558 to 1603. The period between 1580 and 1603 was particularly crucial in her reign, marked by growing threats from Spain, religious tensions, and questions of succession. Historian John Guy argues that “to see Elizabeth as all-powerful is a big mistake.” While Elizabeth I undoubtedly wielded considerable power and influence, I agree that to view her as absolute is an oversimplification. This essay will explore both sides of this argument, examining the realities of power and limitations Elizabeth faced during the latter part of her reign.

Paragraph 1: Arguments SUPPORTING Elizabeth's significant power
Point 1: Elizabeth exercised significant control over Parliament and her Privy Council.

⭐Evidence: Elizabeth skillfully used Parliament to pass laws that strengthened her position, such as the Act of Supremacy 1559, which re-established the Church of England with her as Supreme Governor. She carefully selected members of her Privy Council, ensuring she had loyal and capable advisors like William Cecil, Lord Burghley.
⭐Analysis: This control over these vital governing bodies allowed Elizabeth to shape policy, manage dissent, and project an image of strength and authority. Her ability to work within the existing political structures and manipulate them to her advantage speaks volumes about her political acumen.

Point 2: The Elizabethan Religious Settlement was instrumental in solidifying her power.

⭐Evidence: Following the religious turmoil of the previous reigns, Elizabeth’s Religious Settlement aimed for a middle ground between Catholicism and Protestantism. The Act of Uniformity 1559 prescribed the form of worship and established a degree of religious stability.
⭐Analysis: This settlement, while not fully satisfying either extreme, allowed Elizabeth to assert control over the Church, a significant source of power in this period. By assuming the title of Supreme Governor rather than "Head," she navigated the sensitive issue of female leadership in religious matters.


Paragraph 2: Arguments CHALLENGING Elizabeth's absolute power
Point 1: Challenges from within the court and the issue of succession continuously threatened Elizabeth's position.

⭐Evidence: Elizabeth faced multiple plots and conspiracies against her, often fueled by religious discontent or ambitions for the throne. Mary Queen of Scots, seen by many Catholics as the rightful heir, posed a significant threat, forcing Elizabeth into the difficult decision of eventually executing her in 1587.
⭐Analysis: These challenges meant Elizabeth was constantly on guard, needing to play factions within the court against each other and make calculated decisions to secure her position. The threat to her throne limited her freedom of action and often forced her hand in making difficult choices.

Point 2: Financial and military constraints significantly impacted Elizabeth's ability to exert power.

⭐Evidence: Elizabeth's reign saw England embroiled in costly conflicts, notably the war with Spain. Financing these wars put a strain on the royal treasury. While monarchs had sources of income independent of Parliament, they were often insufficient in times of war, forcing Elizabeth to rely on Parliamentary grants and loans, which were not always readily given.
⭐Analysis: This financial dependence on Parliament gave the institution leverage over the Queen. Her ability to act decisively, especially in foreign policy, was often restricted by these financial realities. The need to secure funding sometimes forced her to compromise on her desired course of action.


Paragraph 3: Exploring the nuances of Elizabeth's power
Point 1: Recognizing the limitations she faced, Elizabeth masterfully cultivated an image of power and authority.

⭐Evidence: The "Cult of Elizabeth" was carefully cultivated through portraits, literature, and public appearances. These often depicted her as the Virgin Queen, wedded to her nation, or as a powerful, even divine, ruler. This imagery emphasized her strength, wisdom, and right to rule.
⭐Analysis: By shaping her public image, Elizabeth bolstered her authority, even when facing real challenges. This propaganda helped maintain stability and project an aura of invincibility, discouraging dissent and strengthening her hold on the throne.

Point 2: Despite her skillful use of power, there are instances where Elizabeth was forced to back down or accept compromises.

⭐Evidence: The execution of Mary Queen of Scots, while ultimately strengthening Elizabeth’s position, also demonstrates the pressure she faced. Her reluctance to execute a fellow monarch and the diplomatic fallout that followed illustrate the limitations on her actions.
⭐Analysis: These instances of compromise show that Elizabeth, while a powerful monarch, was not all-powerful. She had to navigate a complex web of political realities, religious tensions, and financial constraints, all of which tempered her ability to rule with absolute authority.


Conclusion
John Guy’s assertion that seeing Elizabeth I as all-powerful is a mistake is a valid one. While Elizabeth wielded significant power through her control of Parliament, the religious settlement, and her carefully crafted public image, she also faced significant constraints. Threats to her throne, financial limitations, and the realities of court politics meant that her power, while substantial, was not absolute. Elizabeth’s genius lay in her ability to skillfully navigate these complexities, projecting an image of strength even when making necessary compromises. Her reign stands as a testament to a shrewd and pragmatic ruler who understood the limits of power, ultimately solidifying her legacy as one of England’s most successful monarchs.