Graduate Program

English

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Semester of Degree Completion

2009

Thesis Director

Julie Campbell

Thesis Committee Member

LInda Coleman

Thesis Committee Member

William Searle

Abstract

This thesis is an investigation of the rhetorical skill of Elizabeth I of England, focusing primarily on her letters. Elizabeth's rhetorical prowess is well documented; scholars have spent ample time dissecting her political speeches as well as her historical significance in literary, political and historical studies. Although her speeches provide a firm foundation from which to examine Elizabeth and her relationships with her people, her letters are even more pertinent when examining those relationships Elizabeth sought to establish during her reign. Elizabeth's politics and relationships are enhanced and developed by her ability to manipulate those around her with her words. By exploring the rich rhetorical tradition cultivated by the humanist education given to Elizabeth, one can begin to elucidate how Elizabeth was able to use her rhetorical ability found in her letters to answer the following questions concerning Elizabeth's rhetoric: How did her rhetoric respond to key historical events and people during her reign? What policies did she establish with her rhetoric? How did she present herself to her subjects with her letters? How did her rhetoric affect her relationships with her people? The answers to these questions show Elizabeth's rhetorical adroitness to be the cornerstone of her reign.

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