Blackadder Empire in 1453, predating the events in the episode by 33 years); this dramatic licence would continue in the subsequent "Blackadders". The filming of the series was highly ambitious, with a large cast and much location shooting. The series also featured Shakespearean dialogue, often adapted for comic effect; the end credits featured the words "Additional Dialogue by William Shakespeare". "Blackadder II" is set in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558–1603), who is portrayed by Miranda Richardson. The principal character is Edmund, Lord Blackadder, the great-grandson of the original Black Adder. During the series, he regularly deals with
10th Parliament of Queen Elizabeth I 10th Parliament of Queen Elizabeth I The 10th Parliament of Queen Elizabeth I was summoned by Queen Elizabeth I of England on 11 September 1601 and assembled on 27 October 1601. It was to be her final Parliament. At the State Opening of Parliament the Lord Keeper Thomas Egerton explained that the Parliament had been called to authorise the replenishment of the Queen’s coffers due to the cost of the war in Ireland and the ongoing threat of Spanish invasion. He also indicated that the Queen wished to see the Parliament dissolved by Christmas. John Croke, Recorder of London and