ABSTRACT
Parliament met during twenty-six years of the reign of Elizabeth. Elizabethan Parliaments have seen three clearly identifiable phases of interpretation. The controversy over the power of the opposition within Parliament inevitably affects interpretations as to its role. There are two quite distinct theories about this. Parliament achieved more during the reign of Henry VIII than under Elizabeth, underpinning the major political changes of the 1530s. But this was largely because Parliament was led in that direction by the King and his Council. There would be a strong argument that at the beginning of Elizabeth’s reign Parliament was well placed. This was the result of a gradual process comprising several major components. Looked at from the perspective of the beginning of her reign, the prospects for Elizabeth holding her own against Parliament, let alone dominating it, must have appeared remote. The Queen’s approach to Parliament showed respect, caution and firmness–even obstinacy.
