Episode 271 – Mary, Queen of Scots: A Captivating Journey Through her Letters with Dr Jade Scott

Guest Bio

Dr. Jade Scott is a historian specializing in Mary, Queen of Scots and an expert on her letters. She is an affiliate in History at the University of Glasgow, an associate fellow of the Royal Historical Society and Secretary of the Scottish History Society, researching early modern Scottish women and their correspondence. She lives in Stirling with her husband and two St Bernards.

Dr Scott’s Tudor Takeaways

Mary’s Last Letter

Mary’s Letter to her Mother

Episode Summary

Join Natalie Grueninger as she welcomes Dr. Jade Scott to delve into the riveting world of Mary, Queen of Scots. In this episode of Talking Tudors, they explore Dr. Scott’s new biography, Captive Queen: The Decrypted History of Mary, Queen of Scots, which unveils the secrets of Mary’s life through her extensive correspondence. Listen as they discuss the fascinating discovery of 57 previously unknown letters, the intricate codes and ciphers used by Mary during her captivity, and her strategic communication with allies across Europe.

Discover how Mary’s letters reveal her resilience, agency, and the complex dynamics of power and politics at play during her lifetime. The conversation sheds light on her relationship with her son, James VI, and her interactions with key figures like William Cecil and Walsingham. Dive into the intricate art of letter-locking and the clandestine techniques Mary employed to protect her secrets, painting a vivid picture of the challenges she faced during her imprisonment.

This episode offers a fresh perspective on a historical icon, highlighting Mary’s enduring impact and the hidden facets of her life that continue to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.

Listen now!

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