English Society - 1603

• Justices of Peace, known as JP's, were part of the elite gentry class and enforced law and order. The position was unpaid but seen as an honour / duty of the upper class. JP's tried to keep the peace and deal with riots in the regional areas.
• The kind of England was the Head of the Political system, determining government policy. Under royal prerogative, the King had many privileges he could exercise at his discretion. The king could issue Proclamations, which were intended to resolve issues not covered by law. However, on some issues, such as taxes, the King needed approval from parliament if he wanted to pass a law
• The Royal Court was the centre of power but not a specific place, rather, the people around the King. The King had a Privy council which was made up of selected advisers. Access to the king was a means to unofficially gain influence. The gentlemen of the chamber consisted of those personal attendants who the king appointed to wait on him. Given their proximity to the King, they often influenced decision and policy.
• Parliament met irregularly and the timing + length of sessions were completely at the King's discretion. It was made up of the House of Lord's and the House of Commons. The commons were made up of elected individuals, voted in by wealthy land owners. The commons were responsible for voting for subsidies (money to the crown). The House of Lords was made up of nobles (those with titles) and bishops - they were not elected but took a seat due to hereditary positions / the wishes of the King or Church
• England firmly believed in the great chain of being ; God was at the top, then angels, then humanity (in order of the class system), then animals, then demons and other hell-dwelling creatures
• There was a strict social class structure at the time. Each class had restrictions and expectations placed on them. Social mobility was difficult. Women were more able to climb ranks through marriage as this was viewed as a negotiating tactic. Few married for love.