From October 2021 - February 2022, the British Library explored the complex relationship between Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots through original artefacts; for those who missed it, the exhibition can still be viewed online.
Queen Elizabeth I is still one of Britain’s most venerated monarchs, and her relationship with her cousin Mary, Queen of Scots has fascinated historians for centuries and is the subject of many books and movies. Although the two never met, they wrote to each other for years, their relationship fraught with political intrigue and tensions.
The exhibition began with Elizabeth’s life shown on one side of the room and Mary’s on the other, and when their lives intersected, so did the exhibition. Through jewellery, portraits, and the original documents, patrons got a firsthand glance into the lives of these remarkable individuals, with some letters being accompanied by audio readings. Each item was displayed above a description of the artefact, explaining its relevance and significance, allowing viewers to easily follow the story of the queens’ reigns, including events abroad that impacted the UK.
Lily Earl said, “It made these famous figures seem much more real, and I loved how you could even attempt to decipher their handwriting!”
Although the incredibly informative exhibition is now closed, a virtual tour can still be purchased from the British Library’s website. It would make a fantastic gift for any history lovers, and could even inspire a renewed desire to learn about the past!
