This volume provides a sophisticated yet accessible account of the transformation of the British Isles in the sixteenth century. Six thematic chapters explore the changes in the English monarchical polity, ranging widely to consider the new relationships between the different parts of the British Isles and the establishment of a national, royal, and protestant church. Separate chapters consider Britain's overseas role; the economy and society; and the literary and cultural development in this period which felt the impact of the English Bible and Shakespeare.