Robert Bolt gives some information as to the historical background of the events depicted in his play. Henry VIII was a man that had it all at the beginning of the play. Throughout his life, he was accustomed to getting what he wanted. Bolt refers to Henry as the baser side of human nature. Medieval religion stood against Henry's wish to divorce his wife and marry his mistress, Anne Boleyn.
Henry was the second born son, and ascended the throne only after the death of his older brother, Arthur. He married Catherine of Aragon, who was his brother's wife, to keep the kingdoms of England and Spain united. The Pope dispensed a law stating that a man was forbidden to marry his brother's wife at the request of both royal families. The couple married and.....
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