History Hit launches the first of a 2-part series about the extraordinary young woman who would become Elizabeth I - one of the most remarkable people to sit on the throne of England, but whose life before her coronation was just as incredible.
Historian Nicola Tallis, author of Young Elizabeth, explores the remarkable evidence that has been left behind: carefully preserved documents written in Elizabeth’s own hand, heartfelt confessions to the Royal Council, even handwritten pleas to her half-sister Mary to save her life.
To help tell this story, actor Grace Haydn brilliantly takes on the role of young Elizabeth, bringing her words to life.
In this first episode Nicola details the twists and turns of Elizabeth’s perilous early years, from royal princess to the bastard daughter of a disgraced and executed queen; from suffering abuse at the hands of Thomas Seymour to the uncertainty of the death of her brother, Edward VI.
We begin with a precious prayer book kept by the British Library, translated, embroidered and handwritten by Elizabeth and dedicated to her father, Henry VIII.
Episode 2, is also available, following Elizabeth as she is imprisoned in the Tower and fights to survive.
Nicola is interviewed about the series in a fascinating episode of our podcast, Not Just the Tudors. Listen here:
https://shows.acast.com/not-just-the-tudors/episodes/young-elizabeth-i
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