Agnes Strickland's Queens of England, Vol. 2. (of 3): Abridged and Fully Illustrated

"Queens of England, Vol. 2" by Agnes Strickland is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work continues the narrative of the lives of notable queens of England, starting with Queen Mary I and progressing through to Queen Elizabeth I. The volume provides a detailed exploration of the lives, struggles, and reigns of these female monarchs, making it a captivating read for those interested in English history and the powerful women who shaped it. The beginning of this volume focuses on Mary I, the first queen-regnant of England, detailing her early life as the only surviving child of Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon. It describes her rigorous education and the political machinations that shaped her future, including her experiences of loss and rejection, particularly in relation to her half-sister Elizabeth. The narrative delves into the hardships Mary faced, including her separation from her mother and her turbulent relationship with her father, which greatly influenced her reign. It sets the stage for her eventual ascension to the throne, her political challenges, and introduces themes of religion and power that are central to her story.