Cassell's History of England, Vol. 2 (of 8) From the Wars of the Roses to the Great Rebellion
CHAPTER XVI.
THE PROGRESS OF THE NATION IN THE SIXTEENTH CENTURY.
The Tudors and the Nation--The Church--Population and Wealth--Royal Prerogative--Legislation of Henry VIII.--The Star Chamber--Beneficial Legislation--Treason Laws--Legislation of Edward and Mary--Elizabeth's Policy--Religion and the Church--Sketch of Ecclesiastical History under the Tudors--Literature, Science, and Art--Greatness of the Period--Foundation of Colleges and Schools--Revival of Learning--Its Temporary Decay--Prose Writers of the Period--The Poets--Scottish Bards--Music--Architecture--Painting and Sculpture--Furniture and Decorations--Arms and Armour--Costumes, Coins, and Coinage--Ships, Commerce, Colonies, and Manufactures--Manners and Customs--Condition of the People 342