Elizabeth I was Protestant.
While the specifics of her personal faith are debated amongst historians, Elizabeth I established and firmly upheld the Protestant Church of England during her reign. This meant the English monarchy, rather than the Pope in Rome, held ultimate authority over the Church.
Elizabeth's Religious Settlement
Upon ascending to the throne, Elizabeth I sought to create a religious settlement that would bring stability to England after the turbulent reigns of her predecessors, Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I.
- Act of Supremacy (1559): This act re-established the English monarch as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, effectively rejecting papal authority.
- Act of Uniformity (1559): This act established a common form of worship and liturgy, using a revised version of the Book of Common Prayer.
Protestant Foundation
Although Elizabeth's settlement incorporated some aspects designed to appeal to more moderate Catholics, its fundamental basis was Protestant. The Thirty-Nine Articles, finalized in 1563 and adopted in 1571, outlined the doctrines of the Church of England and further cemented its Protestant identity. These articles were fundamentally Protestant and aligned with Reformed theology.
Avoiding Extremes
Elizabeth I navigated a challenging religious landscape, facing pressure from both radical Protestants (Puritans) and Catholics who remained loyal to the Pope. She sought a middle way (via media), attempting to maintain order and prevent religious extremism from destabilizing the realm.
Summary
In conclusion, Elizabeth I was Protestant, as she established the Church of England, independent from Rome, with herself as its head. This was a defining characteristic of her reign and shaped the religious landscape of England for centuries to come.
