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Showing posts from February, 2025

Religious strife- the Test Act and the Exclusion Bill—James II and the Jacobite Risings

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  Religious strife- the Test Act and the Exclusion Bill— James II and the Jacobite Risings The Restoration of the monarchy in 1660 under Charles II did not bring an end to England’s long-standing religious divisions. While Charles sought to maintain a degree of religious tolerance, conflicts between Anglicans, Catholics, and Protestant dissenters intensified. Key moments in this religious strife included the passage of the Test Act (1673), the Exclusion Crisis (1679–1681), the reign of James II , and the subsequent Jacobite risings after the Glorious Revolution of 1688. 1. Religious Tensions Under Charles II After the Puritan rule under Oliver Cromwell (1649–1660), England saw a resurgence of Anglicanism as the state religion. However, deep divisions persisted: Anglicans (Church of England) sought to maintain their dominance. Catholics were distrusted and often suspected of plotting against Protestant rule. Dissenters (Nonconformists) , including Presb...

Patronage of Science- the Royal Society –the Study of Natural History, Natural Philosophy and Natural Religion-Negation of Dogmatism in Religion and the Acceptance of Empiricism

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Patronage of Science in Restoration England: The Royal Society and the Rise of Empiricism The Restoration period in England (1660 onwards) witnessed a profound transformation in scientific inquiry and intellectual thought. Charles II’s patronage of science, the establishment of the Royal Society, and the emphasis on natural history, natural philosophy, and natural religion played a crucial role in shaping modern empirical science. This era marked a departure from medieval scholasticism and religious dogmatism, embracing experimentation, observation, and rational inquiry. 1. Patronage of Science and the Royal Society Charles II’s Role in Advancing Scientific Inquiry The return of Charles II to the throne in 1660 coincided with an increasing interest in scientific advancements. Unlike his father, Charles I, who was more focused on the arts, Charles II had a keen interest in scientific experimentation, technology, and natural philosophy. His court included scholars, physicians, and natu...

The Restoration of Monarchy-Charles II –Pleasure and Libertinism in Court- ‘Decorum’ and the Growth of Theatres

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 The Restoration of Monarchy-Charles II –Pleasure and Libertinism in Court- ‘Decorum’ and the Growth of Theatres The Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, marked by the return of Charles II to the throne of England, signaled a radical shift in the social, political, and cultural landscape of the nation. This period followed the tumultuous years of the English Civil War, the execution of Charles I (1649), and the Puritan rule under Oliver Cromwell's Commonwealth and later the Protectorate (1653–1659). With the restoration of the monarchy came an era of indulgence, hedonism, and cultural revival, particularly in the court and the theatre. 1. The End of Puritan Rule and Restoration of Charles II The return of Charles II to the throne in May 1660, known as the "Restoration," was met with widespread relief and celebration. During the Interregnum (1649–1660), England had been ruled by the Puritans, who enforced strict moral codes, banned many forms of entertainment (including ...