Elizabethan Diplomacy and Epistolary Culture

This book explores the world of letters underlying diplomacy and political administration by examining a material text never before studied in its own right: the diplomatic letter-book. It argues that a new focus on information gathering allows us to situate diplomacy in its natural context and exposes the shared skills and practices of diplomatic activity, domestic governance, and early modern archiving. It also draws a parallel between two ages of information obsession and makes significant contributions to epistolary culture, diplomatic history, and early modern studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A groundbreaking exploration of Elizabethan diplomacy, this book offers a fresh perspective on the world of letters that underpins diplomacy and political administration. By delving into a material text that has previously been overlooked in its own right—the diplomatic letter-book—author Elizabeth R. Williamson argues that a renewed focus on information gathering enables us to understand diplomacy in its rightful place as one of several interconnected domains of crown service and as a key site for the production of political information during the reign of Elizabeth I. Through meticulous attention to the physical characteristics of these letter-books, Williamson sheds light on the environment in which they were created, copied, and preserved, revealing the shared skills and practices of diplomatic activity, domestic governance, and early modern archiving. This archaeological excavation of epistolary and archival culture establishes a new métier of state actor that actively participates in—and indeed defines—a notable early modern growth in administration and information management.

Extending this discussion to our contemporary context of information obsession, Williamson makes a compelling case that the digital realm holds a natural place within this textual history that we cannot afford to ignore. This study makes substantial contributions to epistolary culture, diplomatic history, and early modern studies more broadly, demonstrating that understanding Elizabethan diplomacy extends far beyond the individual ambassadors or agents traditionally associated with it. Instead, it provides a gateway into an entire administrative landscape and political culture.

In conclusion, this book offers a transformative perspective on Elizabethan diplomacy, challenging our understanding of the past and illuminating the ways in which it continues to shape our world today. By exploring the intersection of letters, diplomacy, and administration, Williamson provides a valuable contribution to the field of historical studies and offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of power and governance in early modern society.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367763688