Five Surprising Facts About Queen Elizabeth I
Elizabeth Had Many Lovers – MYTH
Elizabeth, known as the ‘Virgin Queen,’ famously remained unmarried and childless. Although she had many close male friends, such as Robert Dudley, Walter Raleigh, Francis Drake, and Robert Devereux, as well as numerous prominent suitors among European royalty, there’s no conclusive evidence that she engaged in romantic relationships with any of them, either before or after taking the throne.
Elizabeth Had a Sweet Tooth – FACT
Elizabeth’s love for sweets, especially candied violets, was well known. Her sweet tooth eventually took a toll on her teeth, many of which turned black due to the high sugar content in her diet.
Elizabeth Was Once Declared Illegitimate – FACT
Her father, Henry VIII, declared Elizabeth illegitimate, and she was only restored to the line of succession by the Third Succession Act of 1543.
Elizabeth Was Multilingual – FACT
By the age of eleven, Elizabeth reportedly spoke five languages fluently. Throughout her life, she added more to her repertoire, including German, becoming proficient in English, Welsh, Greek, Latin, Spanish, French, and Italian.
Elizabeth Nearly Married Thomas Seymour – FACT
Elizabeth was nearly involved with Thomas Seymour, the husband of her father’s last wife, Catherine Parr, and uncle to her half-brother, Edward VI. Seymour was executed for attempting to marry Elizabeth, a scandal that continues to intrigue historians.
Elizabeth Was a Natural Redhead – FACT
Elizabeth is often depicted with vibrant red hair and a pale complexion. Her red hair was natural, but her ghostly white skin came from lead-based makeup, which likely caused health issues later in her life.
Elizabeth Was a Murder Suspect – FACT
When Amy Robsart, the wife of her favorite, Robert Dudley, died under mysterious circumstances, Elizabeth came under suspicion. This mystery has inspired countless historical novels and thrillers.
Elizabeth Maintained Catholic Traditions – FACT
While she ruled as a Protestant, Elizabeth adhered to certain Catholic customs, particularly during the reign of her sister, Mary I.
Elizabeth I Was Actually a Man – MYTH
Some conspiracy theorists have argued that Elizabeth’s intelligence, leadership skills, and financial acumen suggest she was actually a man. However, ample historical evidence debunks this sexist theory.
Elizabeth Nearly Married Her Sister’s Husband – FACT
After Mary I’s death, her husband, Philip II of Spain, proposed to Elizabeth. Despite their familial ties—Philip was Mary’s cousin and the son of her mother’s former brother-in-law—Elizabeth declined and later fought against him in the Spanish Armada conflict.
Elizabeth Wrote Shakespeare’s Plays – MYTH
Some have speculated that Elizabeth, a talented writer, might have authored Shakespeare’s works. This theory, often rooted in classist ideas, is almost certainly false, and Shakespeare is widely recognized as the sole author of his plays.
Elizabeth Survived Smallpox – FACT
As a young woman, Elizabeth survived a bout of smallpox, though none of her portraits show the likely scars left by the illness.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth I remains one of history’s most captivating figures, surrounded by both myths and fascinating truths. From her legendary resilience and intellectual prowess to her enigmatic personal life, Elizabeth defied conventions and navigated a complex world with remarkable strength. Her life, marked by mystery, intrigue, and incredible accomplishments, continues to inspire curiosity and admiration. While some legends about her are pure speculation, the facts about her reign reveal a powerful and dynamic queen who left an indelible mark on history.
