James I: The Masque of Monarchy (English Monarchs Treasures from the National Archives) (English ... Treasures from the National Archives) [Paperback]

James Travers (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1, 2003 | Series: English Monarchs: Treasures from the National Archives

Few monarchs have ascended the English throne amid as much eulogy and rejoicing as James I when he came to his English kingdom in 1603. There was good reason for it. James brought a ready-made, legitimate dynasty to a nation which had spent much of the previous century agonizing about the succession. The eulogies continued throughout his reign and after his death. However, for every line of flattery there was also one of malicious gossip, and this mixture has made his reign difficult to evaluate fairly. The popular view of James today is likely to be negative, focused on his personal habits such as his stutter, his extravagant spending, and his demonstrative homosexual behaviour, rather than his competence as King. This book looks beneath the flattery and above the gossip by going back to the first-hand evidence: original papers and letters held at The National Archives. A lively narrative sets this unique material in context and provides a fresh, balanced survey of England's first Stuart King. Featured documents include: * Shakespeare and his company at James' coronation procession * James authorizing the torture of Guy Fawkes * James intervening in a witchcraft trial * Pocahontas at James' court

Editorial Reviews

Review

" Accessible and well-illustrated with reproductions of original documents, this is a good reference work and interesting introduction to the political issues of the 'first' British monarch" Living History

About the Author

James Travers is a Curatorial Officer for the Historic Manuscripts Commission at The National Archives. He is the author of James I: The masque of monarchy. He has written for The Literary Review, the new Dictionary of National Biography and BBC Radio 4.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: National Archives & Records Administration (December 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1903365562
• ISBN-13: 978-1903365564
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.8 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #996,406 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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