Tag Archive: Henry VIII

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Lady Margaret Beaufort: Survivor, Kingmaker, Powerhouse

The Wars of the Roses are a complex period of English history, with much of the focus placed on particular men in the main roles. One of the primary players, however, must be given the mainstream attention she deserves: Lady Margaret Beaufort. Despite being essential to the Tudors’ rise to power and a pioneer for women’s autonomy, she is often left out of the histories. This is the topic discussed in the winning article of the Women’s History Competition 2025.
AUTHOR ANNON FORD

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A Comparison of the ‘An Allegory of the Tudor Succession’ Paintings

Depicting a powerful ruler through paintings, writing, music and statues has its roots in propaganda and shows a desire to be remembered once deceased. In this enthralling article, the symbolism behind the royal portraiture of the Tudor period, specifically through two almost identical paintings depicting Henry VIII and his children, all of which ruled England, is thoroughly analysed. The first is named ‘The Family of Henry VIII: An Allegory of the Tudor Succession’ by Lucas de Heere from 1572 and the second is ‘An Allegory of the Tudor Succession: The Family of Henry VIII’ by an unknown artist from 1590.
AUTHOR: ANNON FORD

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The Devonshire MS: Women and Literature

The Devonshire MS is a collection of poetry; its significance lies in its authorship – historical women of import in the Henrician period. This article outlines how the folio changed hands and how it came to be.
AUTHOR: JESSICA AYRES

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Henry Fitzroy: Bastard or Heir?

Henry VIII’s first son Henry Fitzroy has been sidelined in Tudor History. His story reveals a great deal about legitimacy, royal lineage and succession.
AUTHOR JESSICA AYRES

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The Rise and Fall of Edmund Dudley: the “hawk” of Henry VII?

Should we take the negative reputation of infamous Henrician minister Edmund Dudley at face value? This article outlines his life and career in order to explore the realities of his representation.
AUTHOR: LAURA FLANNIGAN

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Tudor Royal Palaces – More Than Just Hampton Court?

Hampton Court Palace is the most famous of the Tudor dynasty. However, it was but one of a repertoire of many architectural marvels. This article explores the construction and use of other grand palaces used by the Tudors.
AUTHOR: JESS AYRES

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Anne Boleyn: A Romantic Heroine?

This article examines the romanticised representations of Anne Boleyn portrayed by historians and artists centuries after her death, with particular focus on Victorian perspectives on her character and execution.
AUTHOR: LAUREN MILLER

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On This Day in 1491 – The Birth of Henry VIII

An insight into perceptions of Henry VIII and interpretations of his rule. Who was Henry VIII? AUTHOR: LAURA FLANNIGAN