The thesis examines the correspondence of Bertrand de Salignac de la Motte-Fénélon (156875) and Michel de Castelnau, seigneur de la Mauvissière (1575-1585). From their correspondence two themes...Show moreThe thesis examines the correspondence of Bertrand de Salignac de la Motte-Fénélon (156875) and Michel de Castelnau, seigneur de la Mauvissière (1575-1585). From their correspondence two themes stand central, namely Elizabeth as a woman and Elizabeth as a ruler. In contrary to other works, the individuality of both ambassadors is discussed and the differences and similarities between ambassadors are presented. This thesis will argue that Elizabeth’s gender has been overplayed in her historiography. While gender is mentioned, it does not take a prominent role in the ambassadorial dispatches of Fénélon and Mauvissière. Furthermore, Fénélon and Mauvissière recognised Elizabeth’s usage of her gender in political situations and reported this to the French royal family. Additionally, Fénélon and Mauvissière had different views on Elizabeth’s rule. For instance, both ambassadors did not perceive Elizabeth as indecisive, but recognised her procrastination as a political tool. Moreover, Fénélon and Mauvissière were aware of the influence of Elizabeth’s members, but knew that the queen held the final say in political decisions. Lastly, while Fénélon acknowledged the significance of Elizabeth’s ladiesin-waiting, Mauvissière did not mention the ladies once, which illustrates the difference between the ambassadors.Show less
