David Starkey's Elizabeth - The Complete Series (DVD)

David Starkey's Elizabeth I

~ What is it about?~




I have always been fascinated by English history and as well as reading various books by David Starkey, I saw this documentary when it on Channel 4 a while back. I saw that it could be rented from Lovefilm and so decided to get it out and watch it with my daughter, who will be studying this Tudor period at school very soon.



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David Starkey also visits important landmarks associated with Elizabeth's reign. The soundtrack is in keeping with the period, using strings and oboe and clarinet. There is an air of traitorous mystery to the music, as it subtly plays in the background, used to good effect to emphasis dangerous and momentous moments. The costumes too are an accurate replica of what would have been worn during this period of history.

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David Starkey's Elizabeth I

~ What is it about?~

I have always been fascinated by English history and as well as reading various books by David Starkey, I saw this documentary when it on Channel 4 a while back. I saw that it could be rented from Lovefilm and so decided to get it out and watch it with my daughter, who will be studying this Tudor period at school very soon.

It is narrated of course by the historian David Starkey and covers her life from infancy, all the way through her reign.

The dvd is sectioned into four episodes:

The first episode tells us all about Elizabeth's birth, childhood and eventual ascent to the throne.

The second episode is entitled -'The Virgin Queen' and cover's the personal turmoil Elizabeth goes through, as a husband is sought for her, to provide security for the country.

The third episode is entitled 'Heart of a King' and covers the war with Spain and her triumph as a strong female monarch. It also covers Elizabeth's decision to execute Mary Queen of Scots.

The fourth episode doesn't have a title as such, but talks about 'Gloriana' England's national icon. It covers the latter part of her life (she has ruled for 30 years at this stage) and the renewed attempts to assassinate her, as she aged. It also covers Robert Dudley's death - (the rumoured love of her life). As those closest to her, died one by one, she sought to find replacements who would be loyal only unto her.

David Starkey also visits important landmarks associated with Elizabeth's reign. The soundtrack is in keeping with the period, using strings and oboe and clarinet. There is an air of traitorous mystery to the music, as it subtly plays in the background, used to good effect to emphasis dangerous and momentous moments. The costumes too are an accurate replica of what would have been worn during this period of history.

~Opinion~

I appreciate that David Starkey may not be everyone's cup of tea, but his voice as he narrates is strangely relaxing. Some people find him haughty, but I think that he is just someone who is passionate about history and relishes delving into the archives to make it accessible to all.

He narrates whilst actors are dressed up in period costume and appear as the characters he is talking about - although they do not speak a lot of dialogue themselves (apart from the odd extract). There are also contributions from other people associated with this time, for example there is an extract from Lady Victoria Leatham (Descendant of William Cecil), which I think does add to the authenticity of what is being portrayed.

Lots of portraits and paintings are also used to add another dimension, to get a picture of what the people at the time looked like.

I like history presented in this way, as I learn things best visually. Sometimes, actual films with the usual Hollywood cast stray too far from the truth, if that is what you are looking for. If you want a true depiction of what happened, then I think watching a story told by someone who has devoted his life to this period, is as close as you are likely to come.

I enjoyed finding out more than just dates and facts. David Starkey has searched through the archives to read diaries and letters, that provide a personal insight into what life was like for Elizabeth and those associated with her. For example you find out what her childhood was like, what she studied, how she went from outcast to the centre of royal life.

It is interesting to find out how history is balanced upon a knife edge at times. For example, the weather played a strong part in winning the war with Spain. Some assassination attempts came worryingly close. It also illustrates what a dangerous time this was to be alive and also the strong influence religion had at the time.

What is impossible to imagine now, is how cousins and other family members seemed to be able to execute and plot to murder each other with such ease, in order to protect their own interests.

The quality of the information reflects well on David Starkey; he obviously knows his stuff and has meticulously written and presented the life and times of Elizabeth I. He almost and I say almost, makes you feel sorry for Elizabeth; surrounded by people plotting to kill her, not knowing who to trust. However, he does not make her out to be a total saint. Whilst her achievements were great for a female monarch at that time, David Starkey also shows us the other side of Elizabeth, ruthless Elizabeth who ordered the execution of her actual kin, in order to survive.

The only downside I have is a personal one; I did have to rewind a few times, to make sure I knew who had done what to whom, as there were many names I had not heard of before.

This dvd portrays all sides of this famous monarch and by the end of it, you are sure that truth IS stranger than fiction!

Regardless of whether you are a royalist of not doesn't matter; I think it can be interesting just to see how this country has evolved. If you enjoy historical documentaries then I think this is one to give a spin.

~Availability~

It is available to rent from Lovefilm and is also available to buy from Amazon for £14.99 plus P&P. David Starkey has also done similar documentaries and books for other monarchs and time periods, if you find that you like this one. I think it is worth renting, but to buy seems pricey and I think doesn't have lasting appeal.

Summary: An easy way to gain an insight into the Elizabethan time period!

This review is also published on Dooyoo under the same username.
 

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