The reign of the Tudors and particularly Elizabeth I is essential for our understanding of Elizabeth II and the state of the monarchy today. Elizabeth II has ruled steadily through the second half of the twentieth century, enduring the dawn of the progressive era, war, and the collapse of the British Empire that Elizabeth I had pioneered (Mullen). As the Virgin Queen, Elizabeth I established herself as the mother of England, becoming a true matriarch. While Elizabeth II is married with multiple children, her steadfast commitment to tradition was essential during the times in which Great Britain was struggling. This callback to Elizabeth I is arguably why Elizabeth II’s reign has been so successful, and why she continues to be a national icon. She too, has cultivated a recognizable image. While today Elizabeth does not exercise the political power of her ancestors, this iconic imagery is arguably why the British monarchy remains successful in the modern world (Mullen). It is clear that the reverence and respect of the Tudor dynasty has carried over into the twenty first century, and their ideas and behavior have influenced formation of the current monarchy.
