Royal Mysteries of the Tudor Period

The Tudor period is a rich source of royal mysteries, including drama, sex, scandal, violence, tragedy, and murder. Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary Queen of Scots are some of the most intriguing figures of this period, and their stories are filled with mystery and scandal.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Tudor period holds a special place in the hearts of the British public, captivating them through literature, television series, and films that span centuries. From the works of Shakespeare and Fletcher in the 1600s to the contemporary creations of Hilary Mantel and others, this era has been extensively explored, leaving an endless list of captivating narratives.

However, beneath the surface of this historical era lies a captivating subgenre known as the Royal Mysteries. These mysteries reflect enduring modern interests, encompassing a range of themes that continue to captivate audiences. Royal family drama, sexual intrigue, scandal, violence, tragedy, and murder, both judicial and driven by personal rivalries, form the backbone of these tales.

The Tudor period is dominated and overshadowed by the colossal and brutal figure of Henry VIII, often referred to as the British Stalin. With his six wives, two of whom were tragically eliminated through judicial murder, Henry VIII left an indelible mark on the period. The Wars of the Roses, a series of conflicts fought over the English throne, continued to rage even after the pivotal battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. Henry VII's claim was disputed by pretenders, and the unresolved disappearance of the Princes in the Tower added another layer of mystery to the period.

In the aftermath, figures like Lambert Simnel and Perkin Warbeck emerged, claiming to be the rightful heirs to the throne with considerable Yorkist support. However, their claims were met with skepticism and opposition, leading to their downfall and alleged executions.

Adding to the intrigue, Anne Boleyn, often regarded as a religious reformer, idealist, and gifted woman, faced a tragic end at the hands of Henry VIII. Despite her reputation as a victim of manipulation by figures like Cromwell in a royal court full of spin and fake news, Anne Boleyn remains a captivating figure in Tudor history.

The stories of Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots are equally packed with mystery and scandal. Elizabeth's possible suitor, Robert Dudley, and his ailing wife's suspicious death added to the intrigue surrounding the queen. Mary's tangled affairs, involving murder and conspiracy to replace Elizabeth on the English throne, further deepened the mystery and intrigue of this period.

The Royal Mysteries of the Tudor era offer a unique window into the complex and fascinating world of British history. They captivate audiences with their tales of power, intrigue, and tragedy, reminding us of the enduring human fascination with the lives of royalty and the secrets that lie within their courts.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399054294