Stuart McCabe

The Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots Stuart McCabe

Mary, Queen of Scots, mother of James VI of Scotland, was beheaded at Fotheringgay Castle, Northamptonshire, on February 8th, 1587. So died a rival to the rule of Elizabeth I of England, and her life would be written in legend and romance. This book writes about the events leading to her execution; the assassination plots against Elizabeth I that she was alleged to be involved in; the conspiracies involving French and Spanish invasions; the trial for treason; and the efforts of the Scottish ambassadors to save her life. The role of her son James VI will be examined, and the hidden agendas of two of the ambassadors; Patrick, Master of Gray, and Archibald Douglas, parson of Douglas. Gray and Douglas were both infamous intriguers whose past adventures involved; planning rebellions, toppling governments, assassinations, blackmail and forgery. What role did they play in the decision to execute Mary? The book will also look at the aftermath of the execution, the response of James, and his subsequent route to the throne of England which he would claim when Elizabeth died on March 24th, 1603. The complexities of 16th century Scotland will be explored, and look at how religion and realpolitic would influence the actions of the king of Scots when faced with the looming death of his mother.