This course on the reign of Elizabeth I will be based on the latest scholarly research, but no prior knowledge is required. The reign is usually seen as a golden age presided over by the iconic figure of 'Gloriana'. However, the later sixteenth century was a turbulent period, torn apart by political and religious disputes and Elizabeth was a woman ruler in a misogynistic age. The circumstances of her birth led many to question her legitimacy and to believe that Mary, Queen of Scots was the rightful Queen. The Pope excommunicated her, the King of Spain launched an invasion, and she lived with the threat of assassination. Her great achievement was to survive these multiple dangers and to keep England safe. But she left many problems unsolved and bequeathed a mixed legacy to her Stuart successors.