3. How did the Reformation affect foreign policy?

About this Lecture

Lecture

In this module, we consider the question ‘How did the Reformation affect foreign policy?’, focusing in particular on: (i) Henry’s priorities in the mid-1520s and its impact on his foreign policy (alliance with Francis I of France, hostility to Charles V); (ii) England’s international isolation following the 1538 Truce of Nice and Henry’s attempts to look to Germany for support; (iii) the resumption of hostilities between France and Spain in 1542 and Henry’s alliance with Charles V; (iv) the troubles faced by England in the Edwardian period; (v) Elizabeth’s confessional style of foreign policy, including her support for Protestants in Scotland, the Netherlands and France; (vi) the diminished threat from France and the increased threat from Spain in the second half of the 16th century; and (vii) Elizabeth’s continued interest in dynastic politics, particularly in relation to the succession.

Course

In this course, Professor Susan Doran (University of Oxford) explores Tudor foreign policy through six key questions: (1) Why did Henry VIII spend so much time at war against France?; (2) Why was foreign policy so disastrous during the years 1547-58?; (3) How did the Reformation affect foreign policy?; (4) How and why did England’s relationship with France change under Elizabeth?; (5) Why did Elizabeth go to war against Spain?; and (6) Was Elizabeth’s foreign policy a ‘complete mess’?

Lecturer

Susan Doran is Professor of Early Modern British History at the University of Oxford. She has a substantial publishing record which reflects a particular interest in the religious and political history of the Tudors, especially Elizabeth I. She is also a Senior Research Fellow at Jesus College and Director of Studies in History at Regent’s Park College.