6R The Right Rev. Mandell Creighton, D.D. Lord Bishop of Peterborough. London: Boussod Valadon & Co., 1896.

Description

Queen Elizabeth is a historical biography written by Mandell Creighton, who served as Lord Bishop of Peterborough and later Bishop of London. First published in 1896 as part of the Twelve English Statesmen series, the book presents a concise yet scholarly study of Elizabeth I and her reign. Creighton portrays Elizabeth as a shrewd, politically gifted monarch whose strength lay in her moderation, caution, and instinct for balancing powerful factions—both religious and political—during a time of national instability.

Creighton emphasizes Elizabeth’s role in stabilizing England after the religious turmoil of her predecessors, particularly in establishing the Elizabethan Religious Settlement, which sought a middle path between Roman Catholicism and extreme Protestantism. He also examines her handling of foreign threats, including tensions with Spain and the eventual conflict that culminated in the defeat of the Spanish Armada. Rather than presenting her as purely heroic, Creighton analyzes her character critically, noting her pragmatism, vanity, and careful management of image and authority.

The biography reflects late nineteenth-century historical scholarship, combining admiration for Elizabeth’s statecraft with moral evaluation typical of Victorian historians. Creighton situates her firmly within the broader development of the English nation-state, arguing that her cautious leadership helped lay foundations for England’s later political strength and emerging imperial influence.

Notes

Large navy/blue cloth and leather binding, five raised bands, spine faded to green, front tissue inside detached, otherwise many photos with tissue, very fine condition.