Charles II is often regarded as a ‘merry monarch’ or as a devious and cynical politician, who wore his religion lightly. Yet it can be argued that the king took the politics of religion extremely seriously, especially during the return of the episcopalian church of England in 1660-3. A recently discovered royal declaration of November 1661 throws new light on his views and aspirations, including the pursuit of religious toleration through extending his powers as supreme governor. Yet paradoxically Charles II was a staunch episcopalian in his public profession of religion. The lecture will explore Charles II’s active supremacy, the problems he faced in handling religious pluralism and the mixed success that he enjoyed.
This event will also be available to join online (via Teams).