Feature Lords in the Light The House of Lords, often in the shadow of the Commons, asserted its power during the reigns of James I and his son, Charles I. But it would be eclipsed by civil war. Andrew Thrush | Published in History Today Volume 71 Issue 9 September 2021 James I seated in the House of Lords, with Prince Charles, Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia and the Duke of Buckingham (detail), from Vox Regis by Thomas Scott, c.1624 © Bridgeman Images. To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive. Buy Online Access Buy Print & Archive Subscription If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.