House of Treason The Rise & Fall of a Tudor Dynasty by Robert Hutchinson

Posted by Sarah
House of Treason The Rise & Fall of a Tudor Dynasty
by Robert Hutchinson

This history of the Howard family—the Dukes of Norfolk—is marked by treason, beheadings, and incarceration—a dynasty whose pride and ambition secured only their downfall. The wealthiest and most powerful aristocrats in Tudor England—regarding themselves as the true power behind the throne—they were certainly extraordinarily influential, with two Howard women marrying Henry VIII—Anne Boleyn and the 15-year-old Catherine Howard. But in the treacherous world of the Tudor court no faction could afford to rest on its laurels. The Howards consolidated their power with an awesome web of schemes and conspiracies, but even they could not always hold their enemies at bay.
This was a family whose history is marked by treason, beheadings and incarceration – a dynasty whose pride and ambition secured only their downfall.

Having read “The Last Days of Henry VIII”, another book by Robert Hutchinson, I was excited to read his book about the Dukes of Norfolk. Just as Hutchinson’s previous book I was not disappointed and right from the very first word I was captivated! Honestly I think Hutchinson could write about paint drying on the walls and I would be hanging off his every word, such is the power and draw of his writing.

House of Treason The Rise & Fall of a Tudor Dynasty looks at the Howard family throughout the reign of the Tudors. In short the Howards were one of the most influential and at times one of the richest families in England. Many members of the Howard family were so intricately woven within the lives of the Tudor monarchs that it is not surprising they are such a well-known family of the Tudor period. Through my reading of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII I have picked up quite a lot of information about the Howard family, Hutchinson’s book fleshed out my knowledge and gave me a huge wealth of detail and information.

Hutchinson starts off looking at John Howard who was created the first Duke of Norfolk by Richard III. He fought bravely and died valiantly at the field of Bosworth fighting for his King Richard III. As history tells us Richard was slain in the battle of Bosworth and it was Henry Tudor the future King Henry VII whom claimed the English thrown. After detailing the first Duke of Norfolk’s life Hutchinson introduces us to his son Thomas Howard who was created second Duke of Norfolk on the 1st of February 1514. Thomas Howard, although imprisoned for a time for his father’s loyalty to the late King, ended up being a loyal courtier for Henry VII.

Thomas’s son, another Thomas Howard is probably one of the most famous members of his family. He was created third Duke of Norfolk upon his father’s death and was a ruthless, cunning and ambitious man – as Hutchinson shows through his writing the third Duke would even climb over his own family to get what he wanted. Thomas Howard was also the uncle to two of Henry’s queens – Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard. Upon the fall of both women Thomas Howard distanced himself and chastised both women for their low moral standards. Although being an influential member of Henry VIII’s court he was often disliked by his peers and despite his loyal service to the King his greed and pride would end up getting the better of him.

Thomas Howard’s son, Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey was just as ambitious, greedy and power hungry as his father. The Earl of Surrey had many run ins with the law but always seemed to get let off after a short punishment, unfortunately when he changed his coat of arms to show reflect the royal insignia this brought about his downfall. With Henry VIII close to death and his young son Edward his soul heir’, Henry did not want any challenges to his sons throne and the best way to do that was to eliminate any that might pose a threat. The King perceived Thomas Howard third Duke of Norfolk and his son Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey as the greatest threats and had them arrested upon trumped up charges of treason. Both men were sent to the Tower of London and found guilty of treason. Henry Howard was beheaded on the 19th January 1547 and his father was to meet the same fate… that is until on the day of his execution Henry VIII died! The third Duke of Norfolk was left to linger in prison throughout the short reign of Edward VI until finally he was released when Mary Tudor was proclaimed Queen of England. He was perhaps one of the lucky members of the Howard clan as he was able to die as an old man in his bed.

Here my knowledge of the Howard clan became very sketchy but Hutchinson did a wonderful job of filling in all the details and writing such livid and detailed pictures of the next two members of the Howard family. Thomas Howard was the son of Henry Howard and became the fourth Duke of Norfolk after his grandfather’s death. Of all the Howard members it was this man whom confused and confounded me the most. He got it into his mind that if he married Mary Queen of Scots (who was currently a prisoner of Queen Elizabeth) there would be a Catholic uprising and when Mary Queen of Scots was proclaimed Queen of England he would be her husband and King. He was arrested for his interactions and alliance with Mary Queen of Scots and spent a period of time in the Tower of London. After his release one would think he would have been sufficiently warned and would want to change his ways, especially since his great grandfather, grandfather and father all spent time in the Tower of London. Unfortunately Thomas Howard did not learn his lesson. After his release from the Tower he was once again implicated with a plot to have Mary Queen of Scots proclaimed Queen of England. This was his downfall and he was arrested, found guilty of treason and beheaded on Tower Hill on the 2nd June 1572.

Of all the members of the Howard clan Thomas Howard, fourth Duke of Norfolk is the one that astounds me the most. Did he really think that a plot to marry Mary Queen of Scots and rebel against Queen Elizabeth would succeed? Did he truly think it possible to bring Catholicism back to England? What astounds me even more than this was the fact that he had already been arrested and sent to the Tower for possible charges of treason and only managed to narrowly escape the executioners block. One would think, if they had a reasonable head on their shoulders that this whole experience would be enough to shock and scare a person into some sense. Yet shortly after the Duke had wrapped himself up once more with Mary Queen of Scots and was toying once more with the idea of a Catholic rebellion. How could a man be so stupid?  He had already been imprisoned, barely escaped and he was back at his old tricks. I struggle to get my head around how any man could have done this, but as Hutchinson wrote, Thomas Howard, fourth Duke of Norfolk did exactly that.

From here Hutchinson then talks about Phillip Howard, Earl of Arundel and son of Thomas Howard, fourth Duke of Norfolk. Phillip Howard converted to Catholicism and tried to escape the Protestant England. He was captured, arrested and just like his father and the Howards before him was sent to the Tower of London. He was fined a hefty sum and a short time later was caught participating in the Mass. He died a martyr in the Tower of either sickness or poisoning.

As well as the Dukes of Norfolk Hutchinson talks about each man’s wife, brothers and sisters. He goes into some detail about Mary Richmond, daughter of Thomas Howard third Duke of Norfolk and how she married Henry Fitzroy the illegitimate son of Henry VIII. This would have been quite an illustrious marriage for Thomas Howard, unfortunately Henry Fitzroy died before the marriage could be consummated and Mary was left a widow. Hutchinson also talks a little about Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard, wives of Henry VIII and nieces of the third Duke of Norfolk and their relationships with their uncle. It would seem that both women did not have a very strong or loving relationship with their uncle, but then again the man did not come across as particularly loving or kind. Hutchinson spoke at length of how Thomas Howard, third Duke of Norfolk treated his wife, casting her off for his mistress and treating his wife with such disrespect and keeping her in a state of living that was far beneath her status. The poor woman seemed to grow into a very vindictive and cold woman mainly due to the extremely poor treatment from her husband.

Hutchinson makes a very good point about women during the Tudor age. He writes “In the sixteenth century wives were, by law, little more than chattels of their husbands who were free physically to punish them. They controlled their wives’ finances, their freedom of movement and their contact with the world outside the marriage. The legal doctrine of coverture enforced women’s subordination to their husband’s every whim and prevented them, in their own right, from signing contracts, writing wills or initiating or defending a case in law. Wives also were defined reciprocal rights in their spouse’s property. The evangelical fire and brimstone preacher Hugh Latimer, Bishop of Worcester from 1535, had a black and white view of the state of marriage, and taught wives from his pulpit that it was ‘part of your penance to be subjects to your husband. You are underlings, underlings, and must be obedient.’” (p. 85). All I can say to this is that I am very thankful I am a woman living in the twentieth century as back in the Tudor age I would have either been burned or committed as insane!

Hutchinson’s book is utterly brilliant. I have read quite a lot about Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII and through my readings have read little bits and pieces here and there about the Howard family. In his book Hutchinson fleshed out my knowledge and gave the Howards a voice. Hutchinson pained a detail picture of lust, desire, ambition, greed, foolishness and sheer determination. His book was a fascinating and captivating read and I was hooked from the first word. I would recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in Tudor history and would strongly urge that it is a must for any Tudor bookshelf! 


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Tuesday’s Tudor Tableau – Tudor Rose Decoration

Posted by Sarah
I bought this little Tudor Rose decoration from the Tower of London in 2009. It’s made out of material, softly stuffed and has beautiful little beads and stitching woven into it. I *think* that it’s supposed to be a Christmas tree decoration, but the thought of only getting it out once a year was to terrible for me to even contemplate! Instead I keep this little Tudor Rose decoration hanging on my bedroom door handle, that way I can see it whenever I walk in and out of my bedroom. It’s just a simple little decoration but I think it’s beautiful and I’m glad that I purchased it. Even the smallest of Tudor items seem to spread so much Tudor love! (I still cannot get my head around getting out a piece of Tudor memorabilia once a year… it must be out ALL YEAR!)


If anyone is interested you can still purchase these beautiful Tudor Rose decorations from Historic Royal Palaces. The product description is as follows…

“The national flower of England is the rose which was adopted as Englands emblem during the time of the Wars of the Roses (1455-1485). The design took the white rose of York as the center of the flower, and the red rose of Lancaster as the outside edging. The design symbolised unity and mutual regard. This Tudor rose decoration is double-sided and beautifully handmade as well as collectible.”

You can find the Tudor Rose Decoration here: Tree Decoration – Tudor Rose
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Quick Question: How Did Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk die?

Posted by Sarah
Quick Question: How Did Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk die?

Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk was a long-time friend and loyal courtier of Henry VIII, King of England, France and Ireland. Charles Brandon was born in 1484 (exact date of birth unknown). His father was Sir William Brandon who was the standard bearer of Henry VII and died heroically in the battle of Bosworth fighting for the future King. Charles was left an orphan and was taken in at court to be raised alongside young Henry Tudor. The two became close friends sharing many interests including jousting, hunting, sports and gambling. When Henry Tudor was crowned and became Henry VIII, Charles Brandon began his climb up the ranks of status and in February 1514 he was entitled the Duke of Suffolk.

After a long and successful career (and several marriages later… including a marriage to Mary Tudor, younger sister of Henry VIII which almost cost Charles his head!) Charles Brandon died on August 22nd 1545 at Guildford, Surrey. But how did he die? History tells us that the Duke was at Guildford when he died expectantly at approximately 61 years of age. For the Tudor period the age of 61 was well into the later years of a person’s life. 

Perhaps the Duke simply died of old age, or an illness or complication associated with this age? Unfortunately the records of the time do not state what he died of, just that he died expectantly. Despite wanting a quiet funeral the Duke was buried at St George’s Chapel in Windsor near the south door of the choir at the King’s expense. On a marble tablet was written “Here lies Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, who married King Henry VIII's sister, and died in his reign, August 1545, and was buried at the king's own charge.” Sadly now that marble tablet is gone and all that is left to remember his final resting place is a black marble grave stone with the inscription “Charles Brandon”. 

Alison Weir in her book ‘Henry VIII King & Court’ tells us that “Henry was stricken at the loss of one of his oldest and most loyal friends, and arranged for the Duke to be buried in St George’s Chapel, Windsor, at his own expense. He told the Council that, for as long as Suffolk had served him, he had never betrayed a friend or knowingly taken unfair advantage of an enemy. None of those present could say as much, he added, his gaze bearing down on them” (Weir 2008, p. 485).

In his book ‘The Last Days of Henry VIII’ Robert Hutchinson writes that “after the king heard the stunning news, he told his courtiers that Brandon has been the best of friends, generous and loyal as well as truly magnanimous towards his political enemies. Glaring, he pointed out that few of his Council could boast the same about themselves” (Hutchinson 2005, p. 119).

Personally I feel these two versions of what Henry VIII told his council about Charles Brandon truly show how the old King felt about his long-time friend. For a King whom saw many men and women come and go it appears that he indeed found a true and lasting friendship with the Duke of Suffolk and that he was genuinely grieved at the loss of his friend. 

I have always found Charles Brandon an utterly fascinating man. He defied Henry VIII by marrying his sister and yet was one of the only men to stay close to the King throughout his life. His friendship and bond of loyalty with Henry VIII must have been incredible. Over the years as others fell around him becoming victims of different factions at court or from religious upheaval, the Duke always managed to keep his friendship with the King. I wonder if Charles Brandon’s best qualities were not his leadership or his bravery or skill in international relations but his ability to know how to read Henry VIII and to know when to push, to back off and how to keep the erratic King’s friendship. I wish we knew what the Duke had died of, but considering medicine and an understanding of health was not as advanced back in the Tudor age as it is in today’s times; I do not find it surprising that it is not known what caused the death of Charles Brandon. 

A portrait of Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk most probably from the later years of his life.


The Royal Windsor Website, 2011 ‘A Royal Windsor Guide c. 1811’, viewed 17th September 2011, Available from Internet <http://www.thamesweb.co.uk/windsor/windsorhistory/winguide06b.html>.

Hutchinson, R 2006, The Last days of Henry VIII, Phoenix, London. 

Hutchinson, R 2009, House of Treason The Rise & Fall of a Tudor Dynasty, Phoenix, London. 

Weir, A 2008, Henry VIII King & Court, Vintage Books, London.
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Tuesday's Tudor Tableau - Anne Boleyn Doll

Posted by Sarah

Probably my most valued piece of Tudor paraphernalia is my Anne Boleyn Deri Doll. I just love this little doll and for me she has such extraordinary meaning. I am very proud to say that my little Anne doll was the FIRST Anne Boleyn doll over to be sent overseas. She is also unique and completely one of a kind. After my little doll was made Deri changed the design and fabric slightly so every doll made after mine is different to the one I have. My little Anne is completely unique in the entire world and there is not a single one like her out there. She’s absolutely beautiful and unique just like Anne Boleyn was. 

I’m also really proud to say that the wonderful lady who makes these dolls is a friend of mine and I love her to pieces. She’s a very beautiful, kind and giving woman who pours her heart and soul into making these Anne Boleyn and Tudor mini dolls.  

My little Anne sits on my desk and watches me while I potter around on the internet or when I (finally get my butt into gear) to sit down and write something. I often find myself staring at this little doll, I’m not really quite sure why, perhaps like Anne Boleyn I’m just drawn to her. The doll is absolutely stunning and so intricate from the tiny bit of lace around the top of her dress to the beads around her French hood, it all stunning. There’s just something about my little Anne doll, I can’t even put it into words, I just love it! 

I’m currently saving to get another doll made… but that one is a little secret which hopefully when I managed to get I will share with everyone! But until then my lips are sealed!

If you are interested you can get your very own Anne Boleyn doll, or Henry VIII or any of Henry’s wives from The Anne Boleyn Files. They are seriously adorable and such a great addition to any Tudor collection! Please click on the picture below to be redirected to The Anne Boleyn Files...

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What Was The Crest of Anne Boleyn?

Posted by Sarah
What Was The Crest of Anne Boleyn?

Anne Boleyn’s crest of a crowned falcon upon a wood stump sprouting Tudor roses is quite famous, but what exactly does it mean? There is a great deal of symbolism embedded within the crest and it seems that each part was carefully chosen to signify something of importance.


Falcon
In short the white falcon was adopted by Anne Boleyn as her badge sometime before or when her marriage to Henry VIII was announced. Eric Ives in his book ‘The Life and Death of Anne Boleyn’ suggests that she may have taken this bird from the heraldic crest of the Butlers which Anne’s father Thomas Boleyn was officially recognised as the heir. Claire Ridgway from ‘The Anne Boleyn Files’ also adds the significance of the falcon in Egyptian culture as majestic, powerful and of someone’s eagerness to set about the task at hand.

Tree Stump/Red and White Roses
Ives suggests that the tree stump with red and white roses bursting forth represents Henry VIII’s right to the throne, the white roses stating is claim to the Yorkist line through his mother and the red roses emphasising his right to the Lancastrian line through his father. The flowers bursting forth and the falcon landing on the stump may also represent Anne’s ability and willingness to bring new life to the Tudor line.

Crown and Sceptre
The crown and the sceptre in the crest not only represent Anne as Queen but also that her husband Henry VIII had authority within his Kingdom, authority to even reject the Pope in Rome and this authority was given to him from God.

All of these elements combined: the white falcon, the tree stump, the red and white roses and the crown and sceptre meld wonderfully together. The crest signifies Anne’s status as Queen and her willingness and her determination to not only act as Queen but to also bring a son (hopefully many sons) to further the Tudor lineage.; as well as emphasising her husband’s power and authority within the Kingdom.


Ives, E 2009, The Life and Death of Anne Boleyn, Blackwell Publishing, Oxford.
Rigeway,  2011, ‘The Anne Boleyn Files’, viewed 15th September 2011, Available from Internet <www.theanneboleynfiles.com>.
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Anne Boleyn by Hester W. Chapman

Posted by Sarah
Anne Boleyn by Hester W. Chapman

Following her highly praised biography of Queen Caroline Matilda of Denmark, Hester Chapman in her new book turns to the sixteenth century to portray the life of the most controversial of Henry VIII’s wives – the enigmatic Anne Boleyn.
Anne came to Court at the age of eighteen, as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Katherine. She fell in love with a young nobleman only to have her hopes of marriage cruelly shattered by Cardinal Wolsey and her lover’s father. No one, not even Anne herself, imagined the dizzy heights to which she would ascent, although her vivid looks and strange charm were already attracting the King’s eye and were eventually to retain his lover for some nine years. Henry would shake the very foundations of his kingdom to make her Queen, yet eventually he discarded her for failing to produce a male heir.
Against the rich background of the Court, Hester Chapman gives us a shrewd analysis of the great figures of the age – Wolsey, Norfolk, Cromwell, Katherine of Aragon, and Henry and Anne themselves. Included is a compelling study of Henry’s love-letters to Anne, which do much to reveal the true nature of their extraordinarily complex relationship. Rejecting as quite false the familiar image of Henry as an insatiable lecher, the author brings fully to light evidence supporting the view, only hinted at by a few historians, of the King as a mysterious man, easily persuaded of the truth of his own convictions, who nevertheless remained sexually cold and himself kept Anne from his bed for six years. Anne, eager for marriage and the role of Queen, may be thought of as Henry VIII’s Dark Lady. Accused of incest, adultery and high treason, she perished. But was she guilty?

I happened to purchase this book on a whim, noticing it as I was browsing through used books on Amazon. Of course the image of Anne Boleyn on the front cover immediately caught my attention and so I paused to have a closer look. What really captured my attention in regards to this book was that it was published in 1974. I was interested and wanting to broaden my reading I decided to purchase a second hand, ex library copy of this book. (I must add that I love old library books with their faded pages and used borrowing cards stuck in the front!)

In her book Chapman gives an overview of the life of Anne Boleyn from her childhood to her time in France, to her courtship of Henry VIII, her time as Queen and then her eventual fall. Chapman’s style of writing is very descriptive and she paints beautiful images of Anne’s life, especially when talking about her fall, her time spent in the Tower and her execution. For a relatively small book Chapman does a wonderful job of condensing information and giving details of Anne’s life in a brief and concise manner. 

There was however several inaccuracies littered throughout the book that as an avid reader about Anne Boleyn I did find quite puzzling and confusing. For example of Anne Boleyn’s childhood Chapman states that Anne went from Dover to France with Princess Mary (whom was to wed King Lois XII of France). However documents from the time tell us that in fact Thomas Boleyn, Anne’s father, secured a place for Anne at the household of the Archduchess Margaret of Austria. It was then from there that Anne went to serve the Princess Mary, rather than from England. Chapman also proposes that a letter Anne wrote to her father while young was written while she was at her home in Hever Castle, rather than when she was abroad. 

Chapman also states that George Boleyn, Anne’s brother, had had a child with an unknown mistress. Unfortunately Chapman does not write anything further to support this statement. Honestly I found this quite a bizarre and bold statement to make as I, in all my reading about the life of Anne Boleyn, have never heard or read any historically reliable evidence to suggest that George Boleyn had an illegitimate son. 

Chapman makes another bold claim stating that Anne Boleyn had a stepmother and that her mother Elizabeth died in 1512 from puerperal fever. Records from the time contradict Chapman’s conclusion stating that Anne Boleyn’s mother was indeed Elizabeth Boleyn nee Howard who was born in 1480, but did not die in 1512 instead she died in 1538, almost two years after the death of her daughter Anne.

In another odd conclusion Chapman stated that Anne Boleyn was seven months pregnant when she miscarried in the January of 1536. Once again I am mystified where this information was found as we know from reports of the time that Anne miscarried a male foetus approximately three and a half months in age. The Imperial Ambassador Chapyus even wrote a letter to his master that “On the day of the interment [Catherine of Aragon's funeral] the Concubine had an abortion which seemed to be a male child which she had not borne 3½ months, at which the King has shown great distress.” Where the age of seven months comes from I am not quite sure. 

As well as these confusing and seemingly unfounded conclusions Chapman made a rather bold statement about Catherine of Aragon which I found quite upsetting. At one point, when speaking of Catherine’s understanding and reaction to the annulment of her marriage, Chapman states that “Katherine’s ignorance, stupidity and tactlessness were those of a bigot and a fanatic, whose thirty years residence in England had taught her nothing of the carrying currents of opinion outside her own constricted circle, and who was incapable of perceiving that since her marriage to his brother both the King and his people had changed, and were continuing to do so.” (p. 95) This rather forceful and cruel statement took me quite back for a moment as I was literally shocked at what Chapman had written. In all my reading not for once did I ever think that Catherine was ignorant, stupid or tactless let alone a bigot who had no understanding of the wider views of the English people. In fact it was my perception that Catherine was an extremely intelligent woman who fought hard for the rights of her daughter and what she believed to be God’s law and judgement. Perhaps this statement was made in an attempt to amplify the reader’s positive opinion of Anne Boleyn? While I do not know the intent behind this statement, as a reader I felt it was unnecessary to vilify Catherine of Aragon in such a manner.

Despite these inaccuracies, and perhaps rather harsh statements about Catherine of Aragon, Chapman made a brilliant point about how the people of England viewed Anne towards the end of her life. She wrote that: “She [Anne] was the scapegoat, blamed for the new laws resented by those who thought of Henry as misguided and bewitched; his adherence to her during the years of the divorce had given her what would now be called a bad press, one that she could neither escape nor refute.” (p. 171).  Personally I believe there is some truth in this as even people whom had never met Anne, nor ever saw her spoke ill of her name. I believe that to many people of the time Anne symbolised all that they did not like about the changes in religion and reform that was spreading across England at the time. Anne may have been hated for what people believed she had done rather than for her actual role in the Reformation and her courtship and marriage to Henry VIII. 

I did enjoy reading this book and despite the inaccuracies Chapman was able to vividly describe the life of Anne Boleyn and her eventual fall. As I stated earlier Chapman has a wonderful use of words and her style of writing flows and is easy to read. Although not the most accurate or detailed book about Anne Boleyn it is still an interesting read and a good addition to any Tudor bookshelf.  


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Four Modern Day Women Who Inspire Me.

Posted by Sarah
Four Modern Day Women Who Inspire Me.

It is no surprise that Anne Boleyn is my idol. Her courage, strength and determination inspire me and I greatly admire her ability to hold her head up high no matter what was happening around her. Anne Boleyn is a huge source of inspiration for me, but there are also four other women, modern day women, whom inspire me immensely.

In the world of Tudor history and research there are many knowledgeable people. When thinking of these people historians such as Alison Weir, David Starkey, Eric Ives, Robert Hutchinson, Suzannah Lipscomb and David Loades are just a few of the names that come to mind. While all these historians have written incredible books, and discovered some fascinating facts and information about the age of the Tudors, there are other people who work just as hard and but may not be quite as well known. There are four women in particular who I find incredibly inspiring. Each of these four women has done a wealth of research into Tudor history and they continue to provide up to date information and facts about Anne Boleyn. For me I have also found these four women to be extremely inspiring. They have encouraged me to continue my learning and love of Anne Boleyn and they have broadened my knowledge and my understanding of the Tudor age. They have also all had a deep personal impact upon me as a woman and as a human being. 

The four women whom inspire me are (in no particular order):


Claire Ridgway: The Anne Boleyn Files
Claire runs five Tudor related websites, including my two personal favourites ‘The Anne Boleyn Files’ and ‘The Anne Boleyn Fellowship’. When it comes to information and knowledge about one of England’s most famous Queens then Claire Ridgway is the woman to go to. What I find incredibly inspiring about Claire is her constant thirst for knowledge. She does not simply take a piece of information given as true fact, she researches and studies and digs deeper and further. It is her quest to find out the real truth about Anne Boleyn and through her articles and her websites one can really feel her passion for Anne. Claire is constantly providing me and all those that view her websites and facebook page, with new and interesting information about Anne Boleyn. When one might be tempted to think that there is nothing more to learn about the Tudor age, Claire is there to give her readers another tantalising piece of information!

I find her desire to continue to learn more about Anne Boleyn extremely inspiring. Through her work and writings I continue my own hunger and drive to learn all that I can about Anne. Her passion for Anne Boleyn flows through her work and it is hard not to feel that passion and to be utterly inspired by it. It is wonderful to learn from someone who is truly passionate and dedicated to what they do.

Dr Sarah Morris: Le Temps Viendra: A Novel of Anne Boleyn
Dr Morris is currently writing a fictional book about the life of Anne Boleyn, with a wonderful twist! I have had the honour of reading a few pages of her book and her writing is utterly incredible! She has the amazing ability to draw the reader in with the first word and cling onto them, keeping the reader captivated and wanting more. Her book may be fiction but all the research she has done and is continouing to do is all based on facts and truth. She has spent countless hours, days, weeks and months researching everything she possibly can about the life of Anne Boleyn. She has shared much of this research with those who follower her facebook page and it has been wonderful to learn and discover so many things about Anne. She has also visited many of the places that Anne Boleyn walked and the videos and photographs Dr Morris has shared are simply breathtaking. She really does have the ability to make her readers feel as though they are following in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn.

 

I find Dr Morris inspiring because of her heart and her constant encouragement. She has taught me that it does not matter who you are or where you come from, it is alright to share your love and knowledge about Anne Boleyn with others. She has given me the strength and courage to share my little articles about Anne or facts that I know with others. As a shy person who tends to worry Dr Morris is an inspiration and a constant source of encouragement not to doubt myself and my knowledge.

Dr Susan Bordo: The Creation of Anne Boleyn
Dr Bordo is currently writing a book about Anne Boleyn which examines the way she has been portrayed and discussed throughout history. Dr Bordo has done some amazing research into how others have viewed and portrayed Anne, starting from when Anne Boleyn was alive, throughout the centuries and right up to today. Her research is utterly incredible and through her sharing of articles and interviews on her facebook page I have discovered many interesting and often puzzling perceptions of Anne Boleyn. She constantly inspires me to question what is the accepted truth or knowledge about Anne and to find out the real truth about one of England’s most well-known Queens.

I find Dr Bordo such an inspiration because she has always encouraged me to be the person that I am. It doesn’t matter that I suffer depression; it is not something to be ashamed of. She has encouraged me to be kind to myself, to give myself some credit and to be proud of the pieces I have written or the things I talk about in regards to Anne Boleyn and Tudor related information. There is nothing to be ashamed or shy about whom I am, instead Dr Bordo is a huge source of inspiration and encouragement to me to continue to strive to better myself and further my knowledge of Tudor history.

Natalie Grueninger: On The Tudor Trail: Retracing the Steps of Anne Boleyn
Natalie is an incredible woman who has done some remarkable research into the life and times of Anne Boleyn. She currently runs a website and facebook page entitled ‘On The Tudor Trail’ which is dedicated to retracting the steps of Anne Boleyn and examining her life. Every day Natalie provides remarkable research and provides astounding and fascinating information about Anne Boleyn and the Tudor age. Her research is always thorough and her passion and love for Anne Boleyn is clear in everything that she writes and publishes.


Natalie is a fellow Australian whom I have had the greatest pleasure and honour to have many wonderful conversations with. What I find inspiring about Natalie is her ability to juggle a thousand tasks at once. She works, has a family, real life commitments and also manages to run one of the most valuable webpages dedicated to Anne Boleyn. Every day I find it a struggle just to complete half the things I would like to, yet Natalie manages to have a rich and fulfilled life as well as giving so much to the understanding and knowledge about Anne Boleyn. When I am stressed and rushed off my feet I always think of Natalie and what an incredible woman she is. 

For me it is these four women who inspire me more than any famous historian ever could. It is these four women who have encouraged my passion for Anne Boleyn and my determination to continue to learn all I can about Anne and the life and times of the Tudor age. These women have given me the strength to continue trying to be the person that I am, to lift my chin up high and not to be ashamed just because I suffer from depression. They inspire me to write, to learn and to follow my heart and my own personal passion for Anne Boleyn.
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Elizabeth I Presented by David Starkey: Part Four: Glorianna

Posted by Sarah
Elizabeth I
Presented by David Starkey

Part Four: Glorianna
After the Armada was defeated Elizabeth I ushered in a golden age in English society. With a flourishing of literature, an age of prosperity and a sense that England was at last a nation to be reckoned with in Europe, national pride was at an all-time high.
Elizabeth was hailed as Gloriana: almost a goddess in the eyes of her subjects. Unfortunately the goddess was getting old.

With the crushing defeat of the Spanish Armada England celebrated grandly, the people truly believing that God had fought on their side. These celebrations and joyous feeling of triumph and independence ushered in a new age in England called the Golden Age. Elizabeth was no longer a mere Queen; she was now Glorianna an icon for the English people. Yet despite this glorious age, Elizabeth could not fight the effects of time and she was an aging woman.

In September 1588 Elizabeth locked herself inside her chamber and would not come out. Her most beloved Robert Dudley, her dear friend and the man whom she most probably loved, had died. I can only imagine that Elizabeth was in deep mourning for this man whom she cared about so deeply. Over the next few years Elizabeth also lost her favourite Spy Master, Sir Christopher Hatton and Ambrose Dudley, Robert Dudley’s brother. Elizabeth also lost her dear friend and support on the council William Cecil. Cecil had been a great source of guidance for Elizabeth throughout her rein and she must have been most grieved when he died.

There were now gaps in the council that needed to be replaced but instead of employing new men to the council, Elizabeth chose to employ the sons whose fathers she had been so close to. One of these sons was Robert Devereux the Earl of Essex, stepson to her beloved Robert Dudley. The other was Robert Cecil, second son of William Cecil. Robert Devereux was a brilliant man and greatly admired, but he was also vein and impatient and wanted to be as great, if not better, than his step father. Robert Cecil was short and mocked behind his back, but he was also extraordinarily talented and smart. Both men aspired to greatness.

In 1596 the threat of invasion again rose its ugly head. King Phillip, humiliated by the defeat of his Spanish Armada was still determined to overthrow Elizabeth and take England under his control. Elizabeth sent the Earl of Essex to a port in Cadiz to destroy the Spanish ships before they made their way to England. Although the Earl of Essex was to lead this attack it was Robert Cecil, Chief Secretary and rival to Essex, who was the man to finance this mission. Essex’s mission was a success and the Spanish ships were destroyed and the city of Cadiz captured. This was another great triumph for England and although Elizabeth was very pleased she was jealous of the popularity and celebrations that Essex was receiving. This popularity and praise went to the Earl of Essex’s head and he started to throw his weight around at council meetings, even daring to challenge the Queen herself! At a council meeting the Queen and the Earl got into a heated argument and Essex dared to turn his back on the Queen. When Elizabeth hit him over the head in anger, Essex turned around and half drew his sword, this act was treason and could have been punished by death! Luckily the situation was somewhat defused and Essex retired to his home. Elizabeth now began to worry about those around her who would threaten her position as Queen of England.  

Starkey then moves on to look at the situation between England and Ireland. In August 1598 English soldiers were attacked by Irish rebels and were brutally slaughtered. Ireland was a mostly Catholic nation and it resented the rule of England and the Protestant faith. They were now able to challenge England as they had the alliance of Spain. Taking action in the spring of 1599, Elizabeth sent troops to Ireland lead by the Earl of Essex. Essex wanted to regain his favour with Elizabeth but things proved harder than he thought. He was unable to defeat the Irish rebels and instead signed a peace treaty with them. Elizabeth was furious.

Meanwhile Robert Cecil had begun to write secret letters to James VI of Scotland (son of Mary Queen of Scots) in hopes to have him crowed King of England when Elizabeth died. Cecil believed James VI was the best choice for future King of England as he was Elizabeth I’s closest male heir, a Protestant and he also had two living sons.

When the Earl of Essex returned home from Ireland, believing that Robert Cecil was hatching a plot against him, he went to see Elizabeth straight away. Instead of waiting to be seen by the Queen, Essex burst into her bed chambers before Elizabeth was properly dressed and prepared for the day. By now Elizabeth was an aging woman who had to wear a wig and heavy makeup to cover her pox scared face. I can only imagine how shocked and horrified Elizabeth must have felt when Essex burst in and saw her this way, after all Elizabeth was known to be very vain in her later years. I know I certainly would not like a handsome man bursting into my bedroom first thing in the morning when my hair was a mess and I was bleary eyed!

Later that day Elizabeth interrogated Essex wanting to know why he had left Ireland in such haste, why he had appointed men in his army as Knights and most of all she wanted to know why Essex had made a truce with the Irish rebel leader! After this Elizabeth ordered that Essex be put under house arrest and he was then to face trial. But Elizabeth could not condemn her once favourite and she ordered that Essex be banished from court and her presence and to return to his house in London. It was here that Essex decided to rebel against his rival Robert Cecil. If he could capture London and the Queen he could force a Parliament who would then see Cecil for the nasty man Essex believed him to be. After this Essex would be proclaimed Lord Protector of England. Along with this plot Essex wrote to James VI of Scotland for his support. All of this was treason in the eyes of the English law.

The Earl of Essex left his house and marched up Fleet Street with a personal army, calling for the citizens of London to join him in his revolt. However Elizabeth sent out her own army and declared that Essex was a traitor and not surprisingly the citizens of London did not join the Earl’s rebellion; they probably did not want to be seen as traitors. Essex’s men were defeated and Essex dashed back to his London home where he was captured. Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex was tried as a traitor and was executed.

Elizabeth was now sixty eight years old and the people of England no longer saw her as Glorianna. The war was still going on with Ireland, taxes were high and the harvests had failed causing loss of money and lack of food. On top of this the people saw the council as old and out of date with their needs. They wanted change in England and that meant the removal of Elizabeth.

In March 1603 Elizabeth’s health began to fail, she suffered from ulcers in her throat, fevers and lack of appetite. She refused to go to her bed and simply sat on the floor of her chambers not even changing her clothes. Finally after two weeks she stood up and stood standing for fifteen hours staring off in the distance. I wonder if Elizabeth was also severely depressed, perhaps thinking upon her life and all the choices she had made. Eventually Elizabeth did go to bed and on her deathbed she declared James VI of Scotland as her successor. On March 23rd 1603 at 10pm Elizabeth I died.

Elizabeth I had been through so much in her life, first a Princess of a great King, then her mother was executed for adultery and incest and due to this Elizabeth was declared a bastard and removed from the line of Succession. She was finally resorted to the succession only to face many trials throughout her teenage years which clearly shaped her view of men and the world. As Queen she faced many highs and battled through many lows. When she came to the throne England was in great turmoil and by the end of her rein she had made it an international power. Yet despite this she had to deny her heart and her love for the greater good of England. If only Elizabeth could have known that hundreds of years after her death she would be remembered for the remarkable woman and Queen she was.

I thoroughly enjoyed this series about Elizabeth I presented by David Starkey. I have read extensively about Henry VIII and some on his son Edward VI and his daughter Mary, but I have read little about Elizabeth. I learned a great deal from this series and found it captivating and most interesting. For me I find Elizabeth a remarkable woman and I can see a lot of her mother Anne Boleyn and her father Henry VIII in her behaviour, beliefs and actions. She was an amazing Queen in her own right and left a strong impression upon England and the world. I would certainly recommend this series about Elizabeth I to anyone interested in Tudor history or the history of England. 


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Give Away Reminder

Posted by Sarah
 GIVE AWAY!
A last reminder that the give away will be drawn tomorrow! To be in the running to win a beautiful pack of five greeting cards with a painted image of Henry and Anne's 'HA' motif - all you have to do is like my facebook page. It’s as simple as that!





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If you are interested in purchasing this pack of cards or others from the set then you can do so at On The Tudor Trail. The cards are absolutely beautiful and I think they will make such a wonderful gift to anyone who loves Anne Boleyn or has an interest in Tudor history. The cards are strong and sturdy and the images are quite stunning to look at and so intricately drawn. The illustrations on the cards were designed by Kate Holeman using watercolour ink. Each image is related to Anne Boleyn, from her famous falcon perched upon a stump to her most recognisable necklace. 


Once again to be in the chance to win this stunning pack of cards all you have to do is like my facebook page – simple at that!
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Elizabeth I Presented by David Starkey: Part Three: Heart of a King

Posted by Sarah
Part Three: Heart of a King
In July 1588 beacons were lit across England to warn of the arrival of the Spanish Armada. Elizabeth I's darkest fears had come true.
Having successfully avoided open war for 20 years, she found herself bound up in a costly and desperately unpredictable conflict.
Elizabeth also loathed war because, as a woman, she couldn't lead her own armies. Instead she had to delegate command to hot-tempered men, who disobeyed her orders and even turned her own forces against her.
Despite the difficulties, it was war which provided Elizabeth with her finest hour.

Part three of this series begins by looking at the war between the Spanish Armada and England. Starkey talks about how twenty years before this Elizabeth had managed to hold off a rebellion against her and create peace in England, yet it was a fragile peace and could be topped at any moment. The Pope had declared that any man whom would rid the world of the Protestant Elizabeth would be doing the church and faith a great favour.  In addition to this Mary Queen of Scots was still alive and could at anytime become a figurehead for the Catholic rebels.

Starkey talks about the city of Antwerp in the Netherlands and how England was bound to this city as it traded wool there, wool being the greatest commodity in England at the time. The Netherlands rose up against King Phillip and called upon England to help them. Elizabeth had to tread a fine line as she did not wish to be seen to help a country rising up against Phillip of Spain for worry that it would put England as Spain’s enemies. On the other hand she could not be seen not supporting the Netherlands as they were very important to England for trade. Elizabeth proposed a marriage between herself and the French Duke of Anjou to create an alliance but Elizabeth found herself falling in love with Anjou. Was Elizabeth on the rebound? Starkey talks about how Elizabeth’s previous favourite Robert Dudley had gone behind Elizabeth’s back and remarried. Or was she truly fascinated with Anjou because he was such a charmer? The common people were against the idea of Elizabeth marrying a Frenchman and worse, a Catholic, and her council was divided and because of this Elizabeth sadly chose not to marry the Duke of Anjou. I wonder how upset Elizabeth must have been as for a second time she was not able to marry a man she was deeply in love with.

A Jesuit priest named Campion came to England to secretly preach and practice the Catholic faith and to help others participate in mass. Campion was eventually captured and refusing a pardon from Elizabeth if he simply recanted, he was sentenced to death. With the death of a Jesuit priest the Catholic people felt provoked and Elizabeth’s Catholic enemies overseas could no longer overlook the happenings in England.

Starkey then looks at Sir Francis Drake, an explorer and perhaps pirate whom had gone to sea with the purpose of attacking and stealing from a Spanish ship which was full of gold. One of Drake’s financers was the Queen herself and she was more than happy when Drake returned to England, to take her share of the Spanish spoils. This of course enraged King Phillip of Spain. Elizabeth decided that she would align England with France so that England would have some protection and assistance against Spain. This alliance also allowed Elizabeth to see her beloved Duke of Anjou again and when they met again he proposed to her and amazingly Elizabeth said yes… but then took back her acceptance soon after!!

On July 10th 1584 the Prince of Orange in the Netherlands was murdered and with his death, Elizabeth was the only Protestant leader left in Europe. Robert Dudley took English soldiers to the Netherlands and went to war against Spain. Unfortunately Dudley was not a very good leader and Elizabeth recalled him to England. With great unrest between the Catholic Spain and Protestant England, Mary Queen of Scots, a Catholic in England was becoming an even greater risk to Elizabeth’s rule. Mary’s imprisonment was increased and she was no longer allowed contact with the outside world. Due to this she began to smuggle letters outside of her confinement through a servant. A man named Antony Babington wrote to Mary detailing a plot to kill Queen Elizabeth and Mary wrote back saying she would be part of this plot. These letters were intercepted by Elizabeth’s men and finally they had enough evidence to convict Mary Queen of Scots of treason. Although Mary was found guilty of treason Elizabeth was reluctant to sign her death warrant. She even asked Mary’s gaoler to assassinate Mary so that Elizabeth would not have to be involved! Yet in the end Elizabeth went ahead and the death warrant was signed and seven days later Mary Queen of Scots was beheaded.

With the Catholic Mary Queen of Scots’ death, Philip of Spain, also a Catholic, had the perfect reason to finally go to full out war with England. Philip’s plan was to send his ships to land on the English coasts and defeat Elizabeth. On July 19th 1588 Spanish ships were seen off the coast of England and bonfires were lit all along the coasts to signal the approach of the Spanish. As the Spanish ships sailed up the English Channel they were faced with English ships, which although were less in number, were small and better equipped for battle. While the Spanish and English ships faced off in a number of scattered fights, Elizabeth went to her troops on the shores and gave a rousing speech:

"My loving people, we have been persuaded by some that we are careful of our safety, to take heed how we commit ourselves to armed multitudes for fear of treachery; but, I do assure you, I do not desire to live to distrust my faithful and loving people.
Let tyrants fear, I have always so behaved myself, that under God I have placed my chiefest strength and safeguard in the loyal hearts and goodwill of my subjects; and, therefore, I am come amongst you as you see at this time, not for my recreation and disport, but being resolved, in the midst and heat of battle, to live or die amongst you all - to lay down for my God, and for my kingdoms, and for my people, my honour and my blood even in the dust.
I know I have the body of a weak, feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king - and of a king of England too, and think foul scorn that Parma or Spain, or any prince of Europe, should dare to invade the borders of my realm; to which, rather than any dishonour should grow by me, I myself will take up arms - I myself will be your general, judge, and rewarder of every one of your virtues in the field.
I know already, for your forwardness, you have deserved rewards and crowns, and, we do assure you, on the word of a prince, they shall be duly paid you. For the meantime, my Lieutenant-General Leicester shall be in my stead, than whom never prince commanded a more noble or worthy subject; not doubting but by your obedience to my General, by your concord in the camp, and your valour in the field, we shall shortly have a famous victory over these enemies of my God, of my kingdom and of my people."

The English had a secret weapon against the Spanish and they sent out several smaller ships laden with wood and set them on fire. The boats collided with the Spanish ships and many were burned and others turned and fled. The English boats also used their great guns to destroy many of the Spanish ships. Eventually the Spanish were defeated and Elizabeth and England had won a great war against the enemy of Spain.

I am finding this entire series utterly fascinating and this episode is no exception. As I have not read a great deal about Elizabeth I am leaning so much about her life and about life in England under her rule. What I found most touching about this episode was that for the second time in her life Elizabeth had found love, and yet for the second time she was not able to marry for that love because of what her people and council thought. It’s such a sad thought that she was not able to follow her dreams and desires because she had to be Queen day and night, every day, every month, every year – there was no rest or time away from the duty of Queen. I am amazed by Elizabeth’s strength and her determination to set England upon a course which she (be it right or wrong) believed to be best. 


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Elizabeth I Presented by David Starkey: Part Two: The Virgin Queen

Posted by Sarah
Part Two: The Virgin Queen
David Starkey explores the tensions created by Elizabeth I's reluctance to marry, which strained the political and religious machinations of her reign.
The self-styled 'Virgin Queen' - devoted only to her country - signified a new era of unorthodox behaviour on the throne.
Though her dalliances with potential suitors such as Lord Dudley provoked much speculation, it was her refusal to choose a spouse from France or Spain - powers that were a threat to the then slight nation of England - that worried the Queen's advisors.
The programme also measures the threat presented by Elizabeth's cousin, Mary Queen of Scots.

Starkey begins this second part of the series on Elizabeth’s life by looking at Elizabeth’s role as Queen of England. Elizabeth had to play a due role as Queen, she had to be both strong, powerful and a leader as her father had been; but as a woman she also had to be pious, merciful and of course, give the people an heir to the throne.

One of Elizabeth’s first duties was to set up a council which would help rule England and a court which would help her in her day to day life. This was a difficult task as under Mary Tudor many of the members of the council and court had been Catholics and now Elizabeth was a new Protestant Queen. She appointed a man named William Cecil to be her Secretary of State and he would prove to be fiercely loyal to Elizabeth. She also appointed Robert Dudley as her Master of the Horse… a man whose father had been executed as a traitor when he supported the short rule of Lady Jane Grey.

Robert Dudley and Elizabeth had known each other as children, yet more than this they had both spent time in the Tower of London. Elizabeth when she was sent there under suspicion of being involved in the rebellion against her sister Mary, and Robert when his father, brother and sister in law, Lady Jane Grey had been executed for treason. Elizabeth and Robert both knew what it was like to nervously await the possibility of death.

When Elizabeth succeeded to the throne England was bankrupt, her military weak and she was surrounded by enemies. It was proposed that to create a strong alliance with another country the Queen should marry. Cleverly Elizabeth dodged this proposal by stating that she was married to England. Despite this pledge to England, Elizabeth flirted with Robert Dudley and appeared to hold strong affections for him. William Cecil, Elizabeth’s Secretary of State, did not like the idea of Elizabeth spending so much time with Robert Dudley and continued to pressure her for an international marriage.

In finding an international marriage Elizabeth had a great deal to think about. She had seen how the people had reacted negatively when her sister Mary had married Phillip of Spain. She wanted harmony in England, not warfare and unrest. As well as this many of the suitors for her hand in marriage were Catholics, and of course this would not fare well as Elizabeth was a Protestant and was trying to help this religion return to England. In addition to all of this I can only imagine that Elizabeth would have been reminded of her interactions with Thomas Seymour and how negatively they had ended.

It was Elizabeth’s aim to return England to the Protestant faith and many of those that opposed Elizabeth including several bishops were sentenced to the Tower. Unlike Mary, Elizabeth did not force people to openly convert back to the Protestant faith. They had to acknowledge Elizabeth as Queen and head of the Church, but in the privacy of their own homes they could still partake in the Catholic mass. In this it was Elizabeth’s goal that Catholicism would slowly seep away and disappear from England as it was no longer part of public life.

Starkey then moves back to the topic of Robert Dudley. He talks about how everyone at court knew of Elizabeth’s feelings for Dudley and how they did not like the man because he was very brash and bold. Starkey also states that Dudley was married and how under very mysterious circumstances Dudley’s wife suddenly died. Lady Dudley’s body was found at the bottom of the staircase in her home with her neck broken. Instantly suspicion abounded, had Robert Dudley had his wife killed so that he was free to marry the Queen?! If so, was Elizabeth tied into this? Elizabeth was extremely worried about how all of this would affect her reputation and she banished Dudley from court while an inquest was held. Dudley was found innocent in his wife’s death, but still the whole incident had left a rather black mark on Robert and Elizabeth’s flirtatious relationship.

In October 1562 Elizabeth fell gravely ill and was in a coma for twenty four hours. She had contracted small pox and it was feared that she would die. The council was anxious; Elizabeth had neither married nor left an heir or named a successor if anything should happen to her! A year before this event Mary Queen of Scots, cousin to Queen Elizabeth had returned to England. She was related back to Henry VIII and by blood had a claim to the English throne. Mary Queen of Scots was also a Catholic and with Elizabeth in poor health, Mary was a threat to the throne. Luckily Elizabeth recovered.

One of Elizabeth’s first acts after she had recovered from her sickness was to declare that a Lord Protector was to rule in her place if anything should happen to her. Elizabeth declared this man was to be Robert Dudley!

When Parliament opened in 1563 they continued to pressure Elizabeth to marry and give England an heir. Once again Elizabeth weaved and dodged the idea of marriage. Mary Queen of Scots however was seeking a marriage proposal and Elizabeth suggested that she marry Robert Dudley to create an alliance between Scotland and England. Unfortunately this marriage proposal fell through as Mary Queen of Scots was not interested in marrying Robert Dudley. She was in love with Henry Stuart and they married shortly after.

With Robert Dudley now a free man to wed whom he desired, Elizabeth and he took up their flirtatious relationship much to the disgust of the Duke of Norfolk. He resented Robert Dudley and his rise to power and lead a faction against Dudley. Dudley’s faction and Norfolk’s rivalled each other and Elizabeth was not above berating both sides. This fighting caused great tension at court and everyone wanted to know who Elizabeth would marry and when she would name an heir to the throne.

While this was happening, Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to a son in Edinburgh, the baby boy was named James and he was heir to the throne of Scotland. However Mary’s marriage to Henry Stuart fell apart and under suspicious circumstances Henry’s house was blown up and he was found strangled in a nearby orchard. The evidence suggested that a man named James Hepburn, a supporter of Mary, was behind Henry Stuart’s death. It was also proposed that Mary was somehow involved. Yet things were to get worse for Mary Queen of Scots as after this incident she was abducted and raped by James Hepburn. Oddly after this Mary and James were married. Many people in Scotland rose up against Mary and she was defeated and was forced to abdicate the thrown to her son James. I feel sorry for Mary Queen of Scots. She had married for love and yet it had all gone so very wrong. Maybe Elizabeth was right not to marry.

Starkey moves on to talk about how in England Catholicism had not faded away as Elizabeth had hoped; instead it was still prevalent throughout the country. When the Catholic Mary Queen of Scots escaped from Scotland she fled to England only to find herself a prisoner of Elizabeth. With Mary’s arrival in England she was now a figurehead for those Catholics that wished to rebel against Elizabeth and Protestantism. It was proposed that the Duke of Norfolk marry Mary and they could take over Scotland and their children would be the rightful heirs to the English throne. At midnight on November 9th 1569 rebellion spread across the north of England; they wanted to rescue Mary Queen of Scots from prison. Luckily the rebellion was crushed but Elizabeth showed no mercy to those that she believed were traitors. She had seven hundred men hung as traitors, including the Earl of Northumberland.

After this a new plot of rebellion was devised and the Duke of Norfolk was once again involved, however the plot was discovered and Norfolk arrested. He was given a reprieve as for five months as Elizabeth would not sign his death warrant, but in the end Elizabeth finally signed Norfolk’s death warrant and he was beheaded on June 2nd 1572.

By this time Elizabeth had been Queen for fourteen years, fought back rebellion and dodged many proposals for marriage. Yet despite her attempts to bring back Protestantism to England, Catholicism was being practiced and there were Catholic enemies overseas ready to attack England.

I thoroughly enjoyed this second part of the series on the life of Elizabeth Tudor. I found it utterly fascinating to look at all the different reasons as to why Elizabeth dodged marriage proposals time and time again. I found myself feeling a little disheartened for Elizabeth as it appeared she held strong feelings for Robert Dudley but alas their love was never to be. I also felt very sorry for Mary Queen of Scots. She had married for love but it had all gone so terribly wrong. I learnt quite a lot about this woman that I never knew before and I was able to see how she was tied into the Catholic uprising in England. I cannot wait for the third part of this series!





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