One of her most well-known works, The King’s Witch, delves into the political intrigue of the Tudor era, while her biography of Queen Elizabeth I highlights the challenges faced by the “Virgin Queen” in maintaining both power and reputation in a patriarchal society. In her writings, Borman explores the relationship between the monarchy and the wider political and social landscape, offering a nuanced view of the way monarchs navigated the treacherous waters of politics, religion, and personal alliances.
Through her work, Borman emphasizes the complexities of monarchy, showing how the power of the crown was often negotiated behind the scenes. This view challenges the traditional notion of the monarchy as an all-powerful institution, instead highlighting the subtleties of governance during turbulent periods of British history. Her research underscores the critical role played by monarchs in shaping the development of the nation and the monarchy’s symbolic importance in contemporary Britain.
The Monarch and the People
While Tracy Borman’s focus is on the Tudor monarchy, her works reflect broader themes about the monarchy's evolving relationship with the people. The monarchy’s role has always been, in part, a matter of public perception. The relationship between monarchs and the common people has shifted over time, with rulers like Henry VIII being seen as both tyrants and reformers, while monarchs like Elizabeth I were celebrated for their intelligence, diplomacy, and ability to unite the nation during times of crisis.
The monarchy’s role as a unifying figure has been especially important in times of national crisis, such as during the two World Wars. Monarchs like King George V and Queen Elizabeth II were seen as symbols of national strength and continuity, providing a sense of stability in times of uncertainty. Similarly, the modern royal family, especially with the ascension of Queen Elizabeth II and the ongoing role of the Prince of Wales and other family members, continues to serve as an emblem of continuity and tradition for the people of Britain.
Borman’s writings offer a critical look at the way the monarchy has reflected the shifting tides of British society, often serving as a mirror to the social and political realities of the time. From the grandeur of the Tudor court to the more restrained and symbolic presence of today’s monarchy, the institution has always adapted to the needs and desires of the people.
Conclusion
The British monarchy is an institution that has weathered centuries of change, political upheaval, and personal drama. It has evolved from a powerful, centralized monarchy to a modern, constitutional one, yet it remains a central fixture in the life of the nation. Tracy Borman’s scholarly work has shed light on the complexities of this institution, particularly in the Tudor period, and her contributions to the study of royal history continue to inform our understanding of the monarchy’s enduring significance. The monarchy, as both an institution and symbol, remains a key part of the national identity of the United Kingdom, and figures like Tracy Borman help to preserve and deepen our appreciation of its long and storied history. shutdown123