For more than fifty years this beautifully written biography has held the field as THE comprehensive study of Elizabeth's entire reign: the wars with Spain and the Spanish Armada; the long-standing struggle with Mary, Queen of Scots; her subtle and resourceful foreign and domestic policies; the abortive marriage projects, plots and court intrigues. Few other books bring so vividly to life men like Darnley and Drake, Essex and Southampton - and the complex and compelling character of the Queen herself. Sir John Neale combines deep learning and pyschological insight with the ability to make extraordinary events clear and accessible; the result is a biography of enduring value to historians and general readers alike.