1. Patronage of Theater and the Arts: Queen Elizabeth is known as a great patron of theater, literature, and the arts during her reign. In the film, we see her attending theatrical productions, especially those involving Shakespeare's plays. She is interested in the art form and appreciates Shakespeare's talents as a playwright.
2. Royal Court and Cultural Hub: Elizabeth's court is depicted as a vibrant cultural center, where artists, poets, and scholars are encouraged and celebrated. Her presence and participation in these artistic pursuits help shape the environment in which Shakespeare's works thrive.
3. Influence on Shakespeare's Characters and Plot: Although the movie takes creative liberties with historical facts, it often references Queen Elizabeth as an inspiration for Shakespeare's characters and storylines. For example, it suggests that Shakespeare's character "Rosaline" in the play "Romeo and Juliet" may have been based on a young lady associated with Elizabeth's court.
4. The Royal Censorship Board and Controversy: The film introduces a scene where the Royal Censor Board examines and censors Shakespeare's plays before production. This is a nod to the historical practice of censorship during the Elizabethan era, which Elizabeth enforced to maintain order and moral standards in the realm.
5. Symbol of Authority and Social Hierarchy: Elizabeth's presence as the queen emphasizes the hierarchical structure of Elizabethan society. Her character adds a sense of grandeur to various events and scenes and reminds the audience of the power dynamics and social conventions of the time.
Overall, Elizabeth I's role in the film "Shakespeare in Love" helps contextualize the historical setting and highlights her influence on the cultural landscape that shaped Shakespeare's career.