Expectations for men and women in their role in society have been apparent in European history. During the Renaissance, The Book of Courtier explains that men are expected to participate in scholarly, political, and civic activities while the roles of women are limited to taking care of the children and household. Scripture depicts a similar idea of social roles in terms of authority between women and men which have also influenced the attitudes of society. However, when someone, specifically a woman, does not conform to those expectations, there is resistance from men to accept them. Female rulers such as Queen Elizabeth I had to rule with an unwavering assertiveness and shrewdness to maintain dominance over the chauvinistic opposition. In …show more content…
In “The Second Book of Homilies” produced by the bishops in document two asserts that wives “must obey their husbands, and cease from commanding”. Although, the idea that their own Queen must act as a subordinate to another person would demean her importance indicates how prevalent this belief was during Elizabeth I’s reign. Yet Elizabeth allows the publication of this book because by deliberately hindering the progress of choosing a husband, and later declaring that she would not marry, therefore allows her the freedom from subjecting to a man. The cleverness and strategic thinking of Elizabeth I’s decisions caused her to avoid losing control over England if she had married; an example of how Elizabeth had to overcome those who attempted to diminish her control due to expected social …show more content…
Document five presents a painting of Elizabeth standing on top of the map of Europe with extravagant clothing on. As the English court painter commissioned by Elizabeth, they must portray her based on her requests. Thus, creating propaganda to promote the political power of Elizabeth, and reinforce her image among her subjects that although she is a woman, she has the power to prevail over England, and affect all of Europe. Elizabeth also displays the strength to rule and protect her country in her speech to her troops in document seven. It is during this speech where she defends her ability to lead her country to victory by stating “I have the heart and stomach of a king” with deep loyalty and