King Henry VIII (1491-1547) & Wives

[Russophile]

Originally Posted by tan_berry

I would like very much to know what is taught to english children at school about this king that Stefan Zweig considered a man without scruples in his biography of Mary Stuart.

And he did not invent anything, Reformation was in the european Zeitgeist (spirit of times) when he wanted so badly an annulment after 20 years of marriage to Catherine of Aragon.

Either of his three children who reigned left descendants, not at all very successful genes according to the natural laws.

I'm not sure I understand you correctly. You have to remember that back in those times life was a lot harsher. Mortality rates were a lot higher. There is rumor that Great Harry had syphilis which led to (IMO) many miscarriages.
Edward wasn't much to write home about dying prematurely but Mary was formidable for her throw back to Catholicism and you can't say that Elizabeth I's reign wasn't spectacular. She had her reasons for not wanting to marry. She liked the power too much and I'd say she did a bang up job of it!

[tan_berry]

I agree, Russophile, about Elizabeth I. She is my favorite british monarch ever. A larger than life character. She truly had the heart of a queen, the love to her subjects and nation. She was brave, intelligent, responsible, smart and sacrificed her personal life, her life as a woman, to become a symbol, a queen in a harsh and male-centered time.

Life is defined like the process of birth, grow up, reproduction and death. And in biology are considered more successful the genes that reproduce themselves before dying. It is true that men are so social organisms, so influenced since birth by social factors, that they should not be evaluated like the other animals.

Elizabeth I´ life was absolutely different to the lives of the other women of her time. Her achievements were huge, far more important that giving birth and successfully raising a bunch of children.

[Princess Alexandra]

Henry's relationship with Elizabeth is quite unknown although in some books it says that he favored her...does anyone have any insight on it?

[CaliforniaDreamin]

Originally Posted by Princess Alexandra

Henry's relationship with Elizabeth is quite unknown although in some books it says that he favored her...does anyone have any insight on it?

I think he sort of blew hot and cold with Elizabeth...all the books I have read indicate that there were times when he delighted in her brilliance and took great pride in having her around, especially after his marriage to his sixth and final queen Katharine Parr.

Then there were times when he would become angry at her for no apparent reason and banish her from Court. Those were the times she probably reminded him of her mother Anne Boleyn.

[Royal Fan]

what are his last words are they recorded where may I Find out Thank You

[Russophile]

Originally Posted by Royal Fan

what are his last words are they recorded where may I Find out Thank You

"Pass the drumstick. . ."

[GlitteringTiaras]

Soooo, 472 years ago today Anne Boleyn lost her head... just...thought you should know. Trivia and stuff.