"This Sceptered Isle": Life in Early Modern England

This student-curated digital exhibit reveals what life was like for everyday English people between 1500-1700, the period known as early modern.

Following on the heels of the medieval period, the early modern period in England was characterized by religious upheaval, civil war, and frequent changes of monarchs. For regular English people, this was a time of both uncertainty and prosperity.

The students in History 100 spent the Winter 2026 term learning how to do historical research, analyze and critique primary and secondary sources, and put together an exhibit to teach each other and the general public about their favourite aspects of life during this time. From fashion to farming, and colonization to crime, this exhibit gives a glimpse into what life was like on "this sceptered isle".

Support for the work on this exhibit was provided by Valla McLean, University Archivist, Classics, History, Philosophy, and Languages Librarian and Penny Chu, Scholarly Communications Technician.