The Fifth Queen Trilogy

The Fifth Queen (1906-1908) is a trilogy of novels by Ford Madox Ford that recreates Tudor England and explores the interconnection of sex and power in a political atmosphere. The novels focus on the tragic figure of Katharine Howard, the fifth wife of King Henry VIII, and depict some of the era's most notorious figures. This edition of the trilogy is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 522 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

The Fifth Queen, a trilogy of novels by Ford Madox Ford, delves into the tumultuous reign of Henry VIII. Spanning from 1906 to 1908, this masterful narrative recreates Tudor England, weaving a captivating tale of court intrigue, romance, and betrayal. At the center of the story is Katharine Howard, the fifth wife of the King, whose tragic fate explores the intricate relationship between sex and power in a political landscape overshadowed by violence and espionage. Ford vividly portrays some of the most notorious figures of the era, including Thomas Cromwell, Bloody Mary, and the King himself, presenting history in an entertaining and undeniably human manner.

Katharine Howard, a noblewoman whose family's fortunes had been declining, was brought to the court of King Henry VIII by her cousin Thomas Culpeper. Despite opposition from Thomas Cromwell, who saw her as a threat to his power, Howard quickly gained the King's favor and became his fifth Queen. At the age of seventeen, she was thrust into the spotlight, facing the impossible task of being a public figure whose every move could anger her notoriously violent husband. Married to the Henry for a brief time before her untimely divorce and beheading, Howard has traditionally been regarded as a minor figure in Tudor England's history. However, for Ford, a master storyteller with a keen eye for tragedy and a talent for crafting flawed yet compelling characters, Howard's life and death hold immense literary and societal significance.

In this edition of Ford Madox Ford's The Fifth Queen Trilogy, the text has been meticulously reimagined for a modern audience. The beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript enhance the reading experience, making this classic work of British literature accessible to a new generation. Through the lens of Katharine Howard, Ford offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of gender, power, and societal expectations, resonating with readers in the Edwardian era and beyond. The Fifth Queen trilogy is a testament to Ford's literary prowess and his ability to capture the essence of human nature, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the past and inspire the present.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513133386