Images of a Queen

Images of a Queen: Mary Stuart in Sixteenth-Century Literature explores the extensive body of literature that emerged in response to the life and legacy of Mary Queen of Scots between 1554 and 1603. This study aims to provide both a historical analysis of the literary works and a bibliographical record of the texts that shaped and were shaped by Mary's image. The historical narrative delves into the circumstances and character of this "Marian literature," offering the general reader insight into the themes and influences that pervaded sixteenth-century depictions of Mary. Meanwhile, detailed bibliographical notes, interwoven with the text rather than relegated to a separate section, cater to specialists by providing technical details, contextual analysis, and chronological cataloging. This approach facilitates a nuanced understanding of how literary history and documentary evidence intertwine, culminating in a comprehensive index of titles and authors for reference.

The study incorporates seminal bibliographies, including John Scott's A Bibliography of Works Relating to Mary Queen of Scots, 1544-1700, alongside its own expanded compilation of Marian literature. The research benefited from prestigious support, notably a fellowship from the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation and contributions from leading libraries such as the British Museum and the National Library of Scotland. The author acknowledges a broad network of scholars, librarians, and critics who contributed valuable insights, including Lily B. Campbell and Helen Gardner, as well as the enduring support of his wife, to whom the work is dedicated. By meticulously examining both the content and context of Marian literature, this book offers a vital resource for understanding the complex portrayal of Mary Stuart in sixteenth-century thought and culture.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1964.