A Letter to Robert Dudley
Who was Robert Dudley to Elizabeth I
Her close friend and rumored love interest
Who was Sir Amyas Paulet responsible for guarding at this time?
Mary, Queen of Scots
Who was King James VI to Elizabeth I?
Her cousin and heir to the English throne
What event prompted Elizabeth’s speech at Tilbury?
The threat of invasion by the Spanish Armada, 1588
What year was the Golden Speech delivered?
1601
What tone dominates this letter: anger, happiness, or authority
Authority
What does Elizabeth ask Paulet to do indirectly in her letter?
Ensure Mary’s execution is handled quietly and loyally
What was the main goal of this letter?
To keep peace and ensure friendship between England and Scotland
Quote the famous line about her “body and heart.”
“I know I have the body but of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king.”
Why is it called the “Golden Speech”?
Because it was her final address to Parliament — full of grace, humility, and gratitude
What does Elizabeth scold Dudley for in her letter?
Acting without her permission / his secret marriage
How does Elizabeth express her moral discomfort while still enforcing her political decision?
By claiming she wished the act done without her direct order
How does Elizabeth portray herself in this letter — superior, equal, or humble?
As a wise and experienced equal, sometimes motherly
What emotion does Elizabeth use to inspire her troops — fear, anger, or loyalty?
Loyalty and courage
What “jewel” does Elizabeth say she values most?
Her people’s love
What does this letter show about Elizabeth’s leadership style even in personal matters?
She demanded loyalty and control; emotion never outweighed duty
What does this letter reveal about Elizabeth’s attitude toward power and guilt?
She wanted control without blood on her hands; moral distance with political precision
What rhetorical strategy does she use to influence James?
Flattery and moral guidance — she calls him wise and hopes he will act justly
How does she balance femininity and power in this speech?
By acknowledging her womanhood but proving her kingly courage
How does she portray herself in this speech — as ruler or servant?
As a servant to her people, humble yet strong
How does Elizabeth’s treatment of Dudley reveal her struggle between personal feelings and royal image?
She maintains dignity and power while expressing disappointment—never letting love weaken her authority
How does Elizabeth use tone to persuade Paulet to act?
Flattery and loyalty appeals — she praises his faithfulness, implying his duty to act for England’s good
What does this letter show about Elizabeth’s political foresight near the end of her reign?
She prepares for stability after her death and strengthens her successor’s goodwill
Why is this speech considered one of the greatest examples of political rhetoric?
It unified the nation, boosted morale, and turned gender into strength through eloquence
What legacy does the Golden Speech leave about Elizabeth’s reign?
She ruled with love, communication, and moral authority — blending politics with humanity