1. Divine Providence:
A central belief during Elizabethan times was that God had a divine plan for each individual and for the world as a whole. This concept was rooted in the Christian faith, which held that God's providence guided human affairs. People believed that all events, both good and bad, were part of God's master plan and that one's destiny was predetermined.
2. Fortune:
The concept of fortune was prominent in Elizabethan thought and literature. Fortune was often personified as a blindfolded woman spinning a wheel, representing the unpredictability and capriciousness of life. People believed that one's fortunes could change for better or worse, often attributing these changes to the whims of fate.
3. Astrology and Horoscopes:
Astrology played a significant role in Elizabethan society. People consulted astrologers and studied their horoscopes to understand their destinies, predict events, and make important life decisions. Astrological charts were believed to reveal a person's character traits and future prospects, influencing their choices and beliefs.
4. Predestination:
Many individuals during this period subscribed to the theological concept of predestination. This belief held that God had already predetermined the salvation or damnation of each soul, regardless of their actions. It reinforced the notion that one's fate was fixed by divine decree.
5. The Great Chain of Being:
The Elizabethan worldview embraced the idea of the Great Chain of Being, a hierarchical structure that encompassed all creation, from the lowest forms of life to the highest, God. This belief influenced people's perception of their place in society and their social interactions, as everyone had a predetermined position within this cosmic order.
6. Superstition and Folk Beliefs:
Various forms of superstition and folk beliefs were common in Elizabethan times. These included beliefs in witchcraft, the power of curses and spells, and the influence of lucky charms. People often relied on such beliefs to protect themselves from bad luck or misfortune and shape their daily lives.
7. Free Will vs. Fate:
Despite the strong belief in fate, some theologians and philosophers during the Elizabethan period also asserted the concept of free will. This debate was influenced by the writings of ancient Greek philosophers and Christian theologians who pondered the balance between divine predestination and human agency.
It's important to note that while these beliefs were prevalent in Elizabethan times, not all individuals adhered strictly to them. There were dissenting opinions and varying degrees of skepticism towards certain beliefs. Nevertheless, these ideas were deeply intertwined with the religious and cultural context of the period and shaped people's understanding of their lives, choices, and the world around them.