Congratulations to Dr Jacqueline Rose of the School of History who is the 2011 winner of the Royal Historical Society Whitfield Prize. The prize is offered annually for an author's first book on British or Irish history. Dr Rose was awarded the prize for her book, Godly Kingship in Restoration England: The Politics of the Royal Supremacy, 1660-1688.
The judges praised the book, saying, Godly Kingship is an outstanding book. It is based on deeply impressive research, which establishes the different lines of argument in what are often difficult theological, ecclesiastical, legal and political tracts. Time and again, her readings are rich and sensitive. It has a long (and appropriate) chronological span, and it offers new interpretations of central historical problems. As well as the main argument about the large implications of the royal supremacy and its flexible and disputed qualities, it has numerous particular interpretations that will variously engage historians of the Reformation, the Elizabethan and early Stuart periods, the Interregnum, the Restoration and 1688, and historians of religion, the churches, politics, ideas and the law. It offers the most compelling account yet of the 'long Reformation'. This is a book which is already influencing historical discussions. More importantly, it has the breadth, assurance and insight to ensure that it will be a book of substantial and enduring significance.
Dr Rose said, "I am deeply honoured by the award of the
Whitfield Prize. The Royal Historical Society’s support of the
profession, and of early career historians in particular, is invaluable.
I feel very touched by their particular recognition of my work, and by the kind
comments of the judges."