Unsealed: the letters of Bess of Hardwick University of Glasgow
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- Education
Dukes and spies, queens and servants, friends and lovers - all of the Elizabethan world populates the letters of Bess of Hardwick. Bess herself wrote hundreds of letters throughout her life: they were her lifeline to her travelling children and husbands, to the court at London, and to news from the world at large.
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A peek into Bess's parcels
Letters are lovely: parcels are even better. What types of things would Bess and her family have sent and received in the 16th century?
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Who's who in Bess's address book
Because of her position in English society, Bess’ correspondents included the great and powerful of the time.
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The many faces of Bess of Hardwick
Bess married four times and with each marriage she acquired a new name, a new role, new children and stepchildren. So who was she? The letters she sent and received reflect the many transitions in her life.
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Details on lifestyle
The portraits in Hardwick Hall, and more importantly, Bess' letters, provide fascinating insights into the lifestyle of a 16th-century woman.
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A look behind the scenes
Hardwicke Hall reflects Bess’ standing in the area and in English society, her duties as a 16th-century woman, and the lifestyle of the period. The years she spent in the house were prosperous ones, although complicated somewhat by her relationship with her granddaughter.
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Stories from Bess's bedchamber
In her later years, on the Queen’s request, Bess of Hardwick had custody of her granddaughter Arbela, a potential claimant to the throne who required surveillance and protection. Bess’ bedchamber contained beds and writing desks for the two women, who had a difficult relationship.