This study covers all aspects of the reign of Elizabeth I. The first section of the book deals with religious settlement, England's relations with France, Mary Stuart and the succession, and the critical years of 1568-75. There then follows a series of chapters which examine Catholic and Puritan challenges to the establishment, and the economic, social, literary, artistic, scientific and cultural features of the age. Then come a number of chronological chapters which look at relations with the Netherlands, the execution of Mary Stuart, the Armada and the later years of the reign. The final chapter is devoted to the Irish problem.