The Life and Letters of Lady Anne Percy, Countess of Northumberland (1536–1591)

This book compiles the correspondence of Lady Anne Percy, a key figure in the English Catholic exile community, detailing her leadership during the Northern Rebellion and her influential role in exile.

"The Life and Letters of Lady Anne Percy, Countess of Northumberland (1536–1591)" presents a compelling collection of correspondence from a significant figure in the English Catholic exile community during the late 16th century. Lady Anne Percy, a key leader in the Northern Rebellion of 1569, played an active role in the conflict, leading rebel forces and intercepting communications between Queen Elizabeth and the Regent of Scotland. Following the rebellion's failure, she emerged as a prominent advocate for Catholic exiles, particularly in the Low Countries throughout the 1570s.

The book highlights Lady Anne's influential position within a transnational network dedicated to supporting Mary, Queen of Scots. She not only shared intelligence and news but also served as a spokesperson for English gentlemen fugitives seeking pensions from the Spanish court. Her efforts extended to promoting the publication of Catholic polemical literature, showcasing her commitment to the Catholic cause. Throughout her life in exile, Lady Anne successfully garnered support from various authorities, including papal, Spanish, and French figures, which further emphasized her political acumen and strategic networking.

In this edition, Jade Scott provides a substantial introduction that contextualizes Lady Anne's life and experiences as an exile in both Scotland and the Continent. Scott analyzes the linguistic, rhetorical, and material aspects of Lady Anne's correspondence, shedding light on the strategies she employed to maintain her influence and connections. This collection not only preserves Lady Anne Percy's letters for the first time but also offers valuable insights into the complexities of her role in a turbulent historical period.