Question

Why was the ‘Middle Way’ significant in dealing with the problem of religion during this period? [12 marks]

Answer 1

Answer:

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There was a danger that England would fall into a 'war of religion'. There was brutal conflict between Protestants and Catholics in Europe at the time. At first she tried to follow a 'middle way' which promoted Protestantism but allowed for forms of worship which would allow Catholics to compromise.

The 'middle way' failed. Elizabeth became more anti Catholic as her reign went on. 162 Catholics were executed between 1577 and 1603. ... There were no wars of religion in England in her reign but not everyone liked her 'middle way'.

These people were called recusants. The key to the 'middle way' was that the monarch was responsible for the faith of the state. For Elizabeth, the success of the 'middle way' would be a means to extend her control over the country