Jan7,
You will be unable to find primary source material regarding the theory that Cecil orchestrated the plot. It doesn't exist because it didn't happen. This is a theory, and nothing more. There have been many works that provide overwhelming evidence to show the plot was orchestrated by Robert Catesby and a select few Catholics.
As for Cecil's hatred toward the Catholics. It's not as simple as finding records of his speeches where he claims "I despise those of the Roman religion". You need to look at who was behind legislation passed by the Privy Council and their motivations. You will need to look at Cecil's letters to diplomats after the plot was discovered. You will need to look at the political manouvering of Cecil in order to remove certain people from government, certain peers from their estates, and his attempts to fracture the English court through his battles with Essex.
You will need to look at who he favoured, and why. You will need to see how he manipulated people, and why, and you will need to look at what people said about him after he died. Only then will you be able to appreciate how and why Cecil hated Catholics. |
History Coursework again
Posted - 05/04/2006 : 14:31:33
