The Dutch glassmaker’s son and rector of the Latin school in Zutphen, Marcellus Franckheim (Zutphen 1587- Dunkirk 1644), converted from Calvinism to Catholicism in 1614 and became secretary to...Show moreThe Dutch glassmaker’s son and rector of the Latin school in Zutphen, Marcellus Franckheim (Zutphen 1587- Dunkirk 1644), converted from Calvinism to Catholicism in 1614 and became secretary to Cardinal Melchior Khlesl at the court of the Habsburg Emperor Matthias. He ended his life as councillor to the Spanish King Philip IV in the admiralty of the Flanders fleet. By analysing Franckheim’s surviving correspondence and publications, this thesis shows that while Franckheim’s life on first sight seems full of unexpected moves and change, there is a remarkable continuity in his faith, his contacts and his opinions. It also shows that the Dutch Gomarist-Arminian controversy during the Twelve Years Truce directly influenced his decision to convert and that a group of engaged Zutphen Catholic citizens connected him to the Counter-Reformation world of the Habsburg courts in Europe. Using Marcellus Franckheim as an exemplary case, this thesis addresses the broader question of how Dutch Catholics in the early seventeenth century, both in the Low Countries and in exile, participated in local and transnational networks to promote and consolidate their faith. It also provides insight in the interconnectedness of the political and religious conflicts in the Low Countries and the Holy Roman Empire, in particular with regard to the ways in which individuals felt involved and tried to influence these events.Show less
This thesis gives an analysis of the correspondence networks of Elizabeth Stuart, Queen of Bohemia, during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) focussing on the period between 1620 and 1642. Using her...Show moreThis thesis gives an analysis of the correspondence networks of Elizabeth Stuart, Queen of Bohemia, during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) focussing on the period between 1620 and 1642. Using her correspondence networks I have researched what strategies Elizabeth used in order to find support in the war, and which options she had available as an English princess, exiled queen and later as widow. To analysis these strategies, the thesis is divided in two parts, comparing her situation as a queen consort in 1620-1632, to her situation as a widow and regent between 1632 and 1642.Show less
In early modern times women often ended up in power. Usually when their husband deceased in war and the firstborn son had not come of age. This thesis discusses the position of these stateswomen by...Show moreIn early modern times women often ended up in power. Usually when their husband deceased in war and the firstborn son had not come of age. This thesis discusses the position of these stateswomen by focusing on Elizabeth Stuart (1596-1662), wife of Frederick V Elector Palatine and King of Bohemia (1596-1632) and daughter of King James I of England. This thesis reconstructs and analyses her role as stateswoman from 1635-1642. In the midst of the Thirty Years' War she tried to gain back her ownership over the Palatinate. What were her strategies; how did she make use of her network; and what was her role as a woman in the war?Show less
