Speech to the Troops at Tilbury

How does Elizabeth address the issue of her gender? How does she defy (or go against) the gender expectations of her time? How does she meet those expectations?

How does Elizabeth persuade her audience that she is suited to be the monarch of England? Name four rhetorical devices she uses in her speech. How might these literary devices influence an audience?

Why does Elizabeth begin the speech, “My loving people” (Paragraph 1)? How does this contribute to the speech’s tone?

Elizabeth notes that she has not heeded the warnings for her safety, instead choosing to appear in person at a battlefield despite the danger of treason. Why does she make this decision, according to her own speech? What else might she have gained from coming to a battlefield in person?

What role does religion play in Elizabeth’s speech? Why does she frequently reference God?

Using Elizabeth’s speech, how would you describe her personality? What words or phrases lead you to that conclusion?

Elizabeth begins the speech by telling her subjects that some of her advisors don’t trust them. Do you think this is an effective way to motivate people to fight a battle for you? Why does she choose to begin the speech this way?

Strength is an important quality in a ruler or leader. Why then does Elizabeth refer to herself as a “weak” and “feeble woman”?