Award-winning author and broadcaster Helen Castor delivered a fascinating Talk! to Hamptonians, partner school pupils and members of the wider community, exploring the life and legacy of Elizabeth I, the last and arguably greatest of the Tudor monarchs.
Dr Castor highlighted the dramatic circumstances of Elizabeth’s early life, marked by the execution of her mother, Anne Boleyn, and a childhood overshadowed by political and religious turmoil. She explained how Elizabeth lived under constant threat – both before and during her reign – yet emerged as one of history’s most formidable rulers.
Behind the Queen’s famously inscrutable public persona, Dr Castor revealed a shrewd strategist and astute judge of character. Elizabeth surrounded herself with loyal allies and cleverly defied expectations of marriage and motherhood, viewing them as potential threats to her sovereignty. Elizabeth I’s ability to balance power, perception, and politics secured her place as a defining historical figure.
Helen Castor is widely regarded as one of the leading historians of our time. Her bestselling book The Eagle and the Hart was shortlisted for the 2025 Wolfson History Prize, and she is currently working on a full biography of the Virgin Queen.
Back to All Articles
