How did Elizabeth I’s radical approach to dynastic marriage preserve England whilst the Valois’ strategy precipitated the downfall of their dynasty?

Author(s)	Ms. Sanaa Pathak
Country	India
Abstract	This paper critically examines the contrast between two major powers of Renaissance Europe. It explores the divergent diplomatic and matrimonial strategies which were at play during Elizabeth and England and Valois France. Drawing on both primary and secondary sources, including original archives of Elizabeth I’s 1558 Hatfield speech. The study further elaborates on how Elizabeth’s refusal to marry became a deliberate political tactic, while the aesthetics employed by Catherine Medici deepened factionalism, and the collapse of the dynasty.
Keywords	Tudor Diplomacy, Valois Dynasty, Matrimonial Politics, Elizabeth I, Catherine de’ Medici, Female Sovereignty, Dynastic Marriage, Renaissance Europe, Political Strategy, Franco-British Relations
Field	Sociology > Archaeology / History
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-12-14
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.60749

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