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6 (a) In Interpretation A, the illustrator portrays how an Elizabethan noblewoman tried to impress guests - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 6
6 (a) In Interpretation A, the illustrator portrays how an Elizabethan noblewoman tried to impress guests. Identify and explain one way in which he does this. Inter... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6 (a) In Interpretation A, the illustrator portrays how an Elizabethan noblewoman tried to impress guests - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify and explain one way in which he does this.
Answer
In Interpretation A, the noblewoman Bess of Hardwick impresses her guests through the elaborate setting and her own luxurious attire. The grandeur of the Great Chamber, with its intricate decorations and opulent furnishings, signals her wealth and status. This visual display serves to elevate her position among her peers.
Furthermore, the way she is dressed—adorned in rich fabrics and jewels—demonstrates her high social standing and reinforces her ability to host such an extravagant gathering. This not only impresses the guests but also establishes her as a formidable figure within the Elizabethan social hierarchy.
Step 2
If you were asked to do further research on one aspect of Interpretation A, what would you choose to investigate? Explain how this would help us to analyse and understand the nature of Elizabethan society.
Answer
I would choose to investigate the role of women in Elizabethan society, particularly focusing on the power dynamics and social responsibilities of noblewomen like Bess of Hardwick. This research could help us understand how women exerted influence within their households and communities, despite the patriarchal structures of the time.
Exploring the contributions of noblewomen, including their control over estates and involvement in political alliances through marriage, can provide insights into the broader societal norms and values. Additionally, it would reveal how women navigated their positions to maintain and enhance their families' status, thus reflecting the complexities of social hierarchy during the Elizabethan era.