‘To promote a woman to bear rule, superioritie, dominion or empire above any realme, nation, or citie, is repugnant to nature.’ John Knox (1558)
Compared to their male counterparts, female monarchs ruling in their own right have been few and far between. But public interest in the likes of Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Anne, Queen Victoria and Elizabeth II has never been stronger.
This study day spotlights queens who ruled in their own right – from the Tudor period to the twentieth century. Delving into their personal struggles and their complex impact on the domestic and world stage, students will explore significant chapters of history and ask: What does it mean to be a queen regnant? How did society view and treat the respective queens? What distinct challenges have female monarchs faced over time?
Please note: this event will close to enrolments at 23:59 on 4 March 2026.