Diplomacy, Politics and the Arts

This chapter focuses on Lennox’s political activities, diplomatic missions, and participation in the arts. On several occasions King James dispatched Lennox back to Scotland to wrangle with the Scottish Parliament. Lennox was also sent as emissary to France to solidify relationships and engage in marriage negotiations for Charles. Lennox regularly entertained and intervened for foreign ambassadors in London. In 1613 James made Lennox Earl of Richmond, enabling him to sit in Parliament. He became Lord Steward of the Household in 1616, and in 1623 Duke of Richmond. Early on Lennox became patron of his own acting company; he arranged the first Jacobean court masque, and he performed in several masques.