3. Elizabeth's Suitors: Philip, Dudley, Anjou

Which suitor was the King of Spain, a Catholic, AND previously married to Elizabeth's half-sister Mary, making him a controversial choice for Elizabeth I?

(a)  

Why was Robert Dudley considered a controversial suitor for Elizabeth I?

Answer explanation

He was already married

Later it was rumored he murdered his wife

Which suitor was known as the "Frog" by Elizabeth I due to his French nationality - he was very unpopular with the English public!

• Philip II

• Robert Dudley

• Francis, Duke of Anjou

• William of Orange

What was one of the main reasons Elizabeth I considered marrying Philip II of Spain?

• To strengthen Protestant alliances.

• To secure a powerful Catholic ally.

• To gain control over France.

Which suitor was a childhood friend of Elizabeth I and held a significant position at court due to the trust he had built with Elizabeth?

• Philip II

• Robert Dudley

• Francis, Duke of Anjou

• Robert Cecil

What was a significant concern for Elizabeth I in marrying Francis, Duke of Anjou?

• His Protestant faith.

• His age difference with Elizabeth.

• The potential for French influence in England.

What was a political advantage of Elizabeth I marrying Robert Dudley?

• Strengthening ties with Spain.

• Maintaining control over English nobility.

• Gaining French support.

Which suitor was the brother of the King of France and offered a potential alliance with France?

• Philip II

• Robert Dudley

• Francis, Duke of Anjou

Why did Elizabeth I ultimately decide against marrying any of her suitors?

• She wanted to maintain her independence and power.

• She was in love with someone else.

• She was forced by Parliament.

Arguments FOR and AGAINST Elizabeth marrying

Groups:

(a) FOR

,

(b) AGAINST

• Produce a successor / heir to continue the Tudor bloodline

• Fear of Childbirth

• Create an alliance with foreign country

• Prevent Civil War - QE nearly died of smallpox at 29 and she had no successor

• Stop Mary Queen of Scots from being heir

• QE would lose authority either to a foreign king or English nobleman

• Jealous English nobles may rebel