Here are the reasons why the period was called the Elizabethan times:
1. Queen Elizabeth's Reign:
The era is directly named after Queen Elizabeth I herself. Her reign marked a significant shift in English history and brought unprecedented progress across various fields. Her strong and influential rule left an indelible mark on the country.
2. Economic Growth:
During the Elizabethan era, England experienced significant economic growth. Trade expanded considerably, and new industries emerged, leading to increased wealth and prosperity for the nation.
3. Maritime Exploration:
The Elizabethan era witnessed a period of extraordinary exploration and discovery, with English explorers, like Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh, venturing into unknown waters and expanding England's territories around the world.
4. Patronage of the Arts:
Queen Elizabeth was a patron of the arts and encouraged the development of literature, music, and theater. This patronage led to the flourishing of the arts, particularly in the form of plays by renowned writers such as William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, and Ben Jonson.
5. Artistic and Literary Achievements:
The Elizabethan era produced some of the most iconic works of English literature, including many of Shakespeare's greatest plays. Dramatists experimented with new forms of entertainment, while poetry and music thrived.
6. Cultural Exchange:
England's increased contact with other cultures and countries during this time facilitated a vast exchange of ideas and influences that enriched the nation's culture and society.
7. Religious Reformation:
The reign of Queen Elizabeth also coincided with the final phase of the English Reformation, which led to the establishment of Protestantism as the official religion of England. Religious change affected cultural, social, and political aspects of the nation.
8. National Identity:
The Elizabethan era fostered a strong sense of national pride and identity in England. The successful defense against the Spanish Armada in 1588 further solidified this pride and patriotism.
9. Elizabethan Society:
The era was characterized by distinct societal structures and customs, with significant emphasis on social hierarchy, class distinctions, and court life.
10. Legacy and Endurance:
The Elizabethan times continue to be remembered and celebrated for their profound impact on English culture, literature, and society. The term "Elizabethan" remains synonymous with an era of great cultural and historical importance.
In essence, the Elizabethan times encapsulate a period of cultural, artistic, and political achievements under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, which left an enduring legacy on England and the world at large.