Interpretation of quote by Queen Elizabeth I

"I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too." - Queen Elizabeth I

Throughout history, women have been viewed as being inferior to men. Often described as weak and emotional, women aren't usually thought of when mentioning powerful and influential leaders. Men on the other hand, are thought to be powerful, strong, courageous, wise etc., whereas woman could be none of these things.

Queen Elizabeth I not only went against this stereotypical view of women by her actions, but by her words too. All this can be determined by this quote: "I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too."

Elizabeth knows that she isn't as strong as past kings, or any of the men in her army for that matter.

English: Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgb...

Elizabeth I decreed that the Kings Council of the ...

Queen of United Kingdom (as well as Canada, Austra...

She admits in this quote that her appearance and body is that of someone who is weak and fragile, in other words, a woman. But to her, that doesn't matter. She has the heart and determination to succeed and with this alone, she can. Elizabeth believes that her capabilities are just as great as other kings who have ruled before her. The fact that she mentions that she has the "heart and stomach" of not only a king, but of a king of England is very important. Elizabeth is saying she is just as qualified as past leaders of her own country, who are obviously well respected and looked up to.