The Love of a Queen

SOAPST is used to help the reader better understand the content of the literature, why it has been written, and to help the audience understand if the literary piece was effective in connecting to its intended audience. Queen Elizabeth’s speech was effective; it helped encourage her soldiers and reassured her people.

Subject- The subject of this speech was the Queen of England speaking to her people and informing of them of the position they are in and how she will work to give them the freedom and land they deserve.

Occasion- This speech was given on a day of battle in 1588, when the Spanish Armada was preparing to take England, however Queen Elizabeth was not willing to give her country to the Spanish.

Audience- The Virgin Queen’s speech was intended to her people, and her faithful soldiers. She knew that others would here of this powerful speech as well and hoped it would instill fear inside of them. Queen Elizabeth says, “…and therefore I am come amongst you, as this time, not for my recreation and disport, but being resolved, in the midst and heart of the battle, to live and die amongst you all; to lay down for my God, and for my kingdom, and my people, my honor and my blood, even in the dust.” (page 40, line 5)

 Purpose- Queen Elizabeth gave this speech in hopes of encouraging and pushing her soldiers to fight harder and die with pride if need be. She wanted to reassure her people of her faith in them and her love for her country.  

Speaker- The speaker is Queen Elizabeth, who was the Virgin Queen of England at the time.

Tone- The tone of this speech was encouraging, reassuring, promising, informative, caring and powerful. She made it clear to the people that she was their leader; however she was a part of them too. Queen Elizabeth tries to establish hope and confidence into her people and loyal soldiers.