Henry VIII was an extremely traditional, misogynistic monarch as typical for his time, and believed firmly in the traditional role of women in medieval courts. As such, from a very young age, many attempts were made by the crown to utilise her as a bargaining chip through brokering engagements and political marriages to influential European nobles. In fact, Mary was betrothed as early as two years old – before she could even speak or walk! However, every attempt made by Henry’s government to ship Mary off to a distant corner of Europe were ultimately unsuccessful during his lifetime. After his death, Mary would marry King Philip II of Spain – a match of her own choosing.
Loading…