Elizabeth’s Pleasures

Abstract

Being queen was hard work and there were many tensions and difficulties. But there were a number of activities that also gave Elizabeth great pleasure. Some were more private, while others very public, some more mental, others very physical. When Elizabeth was young, she had a great passion for her studies and that especially manifested itself in her study of other languages. As a queen she found doing translations helped her deal with challenging times. Elizabeth greatly enjoyed going for walks, hunting, and dancing. She liked to listen to music, and also to play instruments herself. Elizabeth played chess and various card games, and especially liked to win. Elizabeth loved receiving gifts and she received many—hundreds as New Year’s gifts as well as gifts from her hosts when she went on progress throughout her kingdom. She especially preferred jewelry and clothing. She also loved clocks. Elizabeth also got great pleasure from the many plays performed at her court.