Pairings: Catherine Barnard

Catherine Barnard

Senior Tutor

More than 500 years after his death, Henry VIII still lords it over Trinity. His portrait dominates the dining Hall and his endowment provides the foundation for the College’s financial resources. In my academic work, Henry is also never far away. As the UK commences the process of leaving the European Union, the debate about the Repeal Bill is dominated by ‘Henry VIII clauses’, provisions which give extensive power to the executive to deliver Brexit.

But for me it is his daughter, Elizabeth I, who is the real inspiration. In this iconic painting by Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger (c 1597), which hangs proudly in the Master’s Lodge, Elizabeth is represented as a symbol of power, determination and success. I marvel at what she achieved, reigning for nearly 50 years at a time when a woman’s place was anywhere but as head of the kingdom. What a mind she must have had!

When Trinity began its celebrations of the 40th anniversary of women’s admission to the College, this magnificent portrait of Elizabeth was hung in Hall in place of her father’s picture. By candlelight, the portrait took on a new aspect, as her jewels shimmered. Her powerful presence compelled attention.

This unsettled some. A photo of female Fellows and students in front of the portrait, followed by breakfast in Hall, precipitated an angry backlash in some quarters – and passionate support in others. It revealed an ambiguity, even today, towards women, their role and their position. But Elizabeth serves as a reminder that, with intelligence and skill, women can succeed at anything.