Mary Queen Of Scots

Mary Queen of Scots, who had a powerful intellect but a poor political sense, was held captive by her cousin Elizabeth I after fleeing to England. Antonia Fraser's classic biography tells her life and untimely end.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 800 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2018
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Ground-breaking Biography of Mary Queen of Scots


One of the greatest international bestsellers of the post-war period, Andrew Roberts of the Daily Telegraph praised Mary Queen of Scots as "a gripping read." The Sunday Times likened her to a captivating novel, describing her as a young queen who, despite possessing a formidable intellect, found herself entangled in a web of intrigue, marriage, and murder. After fleeing to England, she was held captive by her cousin Elizabeth I. In this classic biography, reissued for the fiftieth anniversary of its publication, acclaimed historian Antonia Fraser unfolds the captivating story of Mary's life and untimely demise.


Mary Queen of Scots: A Life of Intrigue and Tragedy


Mary Queen of Scots, born in 1542, emerged as a captivating figure in the turbulent political landscape of 16th-century Europe. Raised at the court of France, her formative years were marked by a profound influence of French culture and politics. However, her political sense, honed in the absolute court of France, would ultimately lead her country into a maelstrom of intrigue, marriage, and murder.


After her father, King James V of Scotland, died in 1542, Mary ascended to the throne at a young age. She faced numerous challenges in her early reign, including the ongoing conflict with England and the threat of a French invasion. Despite these obstacles, Mary showed resilience and determination, displaying a keen intellect and a strong sense of self.


However, Mary's life took a dramatic turn when she married Francis II of France in 1558. The marriage was a strategic move aimed at strengthening Scotland's ties with France and countering the growing influence of England. However, the union proved to be a disaster, as Francis was a weak and indecisive king who was often dominated by his mother, Catherine de Médicis.


The relationship between Mary and Francis was characterized by constant conflict and intrigue. Mary's attempts to assert her authority and control over her husband's affairs often led to clashes with Catherine de Médicis, who saw Mary as a threat to her own power. The situation escalated further when Mary became pregnant in 1565, raising suspicions that Francis had been unfaithful.


In response to these allegations, Catherine de Médicis orchestrated a plot to have Mary executed. Mary was arrested and taken to Fotheringhay Castle, where she was held captive for nearly two years before being executed on February 8, 1587. The execution marked a significant turning point in Scottish history, as it effectively ended Mary's reign and paved the way for the ascension of Elizabeth I to the English throne.


Mary Queen of Scots remains a fascinating and enigmatic figure in history, captivating scholars and enthusiasts alike with her complex personality, tragic life, and significant impact on the course of European history. Despite her short reign, Mary's legacy continues to inspire and intrigue, reminding us of the power of ambition, the consequences of political intrigue, and the enduring fascination with the lives of royalty.


In conclusion, Mary Queen of Scots' life was a tale of ambition, tragedy, and political intrigue. Raised in the courts of France and Scotland, she possessed a formidable intellect and a strong sense of self. However, her marriage to Francis II of France and her attempts to assert her authority led to a series of conflicts and ultimately her execution. Mary's legacy continues to inspire and intrigue, reminding us of the complexities of royal relationships, the power of ambition, and the consequences of political intrigue.

Weight: 606g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474610919