Catholicism Elizabeth

Elizabeth did not wish to 'make windows into men's souls' - everyone entitled to own belief. Toleration of Catholics conditional on obedience.

Although Act of Supremacy laid down fines for those who didn't attend church - recusants - these were rarely demanded. Catholic imagery removed from parish churches. 

Most Catholics survived as 'church papists' outwardly conforming by attending Anglican services. However an active minority followed Catholic bishops who had refused to conform to Oath of Supremacy.

Northern Rebellion provoked punitive attitude towards Catholics. Elizabeth excommunicated in 1570 and called on loyal Catholics to dispose her. Placed English Catholics in impossible position - forced to choose between loyalty to Church or their monarch. 

Penal laws against Catholics

Three progressively more severe acts passed in…