This paper looks at Protestantism in England in 1558, how it was in poor condition and the effectiveness of the counter-reformation
movement. It examines the acceptability of Protestantism in England by exploring to what extent the population 'conformed for the sake of conforming' . It also discusses Edwardian Protestantism and the policies implemented by Marian England and from a theoretical perspective it addresses the accession of Elizabeth and the nature of religion in England at the time.