Book Review

Hey all, for this blog I generally recommend one book per week. However I am currently reading a biography of Mary I entitled The Myth of Bloody Mary by Linda Porter which I believe needs a review on my page.  I purchased the book recently to expand my knowledge of Mary and her attempted reversal of Henrician and Edwardian religious reforms. The book reads exceptionally well, more like a novel than a biography. However, I myself have many difficulties with considering this book as a biography. As historians, professional or amatuer, we assume that a biography is complete fact, with as little personal bias or insight at possible. This book takes great liberties with the information it presents. First of all the author claims that Anne Boleyn was "...the author of all of Mary's misfortunes..." While Anne undoubtedly made Mary's life more difficult is is ridiculous and historically inaccurate to claim that Anne was to blame for all of Mary's problems. While Anne significantly influenced Henry's religious thought, the Six Articles that he required all subjects to sign and adhere to had been largely written and perfected by Cromwell and Henry himself. Most of the tension and trouble between the King and his daughter came at her refusal to sign the documents which named Henry the supreme head of religious affairs in England. Henry, at this stage in his life, had usurped almost all power in England including religious and political. He was used to his subjects adhering to his absolute authority and Mary's disobedience enraged Henry. He saw Mary's denial of his ecclesiastical rights as an extension of her mother's stubborn nature. She further enraged him when she wrote to him angry at his messengers and secretaries refusal to address her as princess, when he had made it abundantly clear that she was no longer to be addressed in such a manner.
The author also makes the claim that verbal testimony was offered by Jane Boleyn, the Lady Rochford that incriminated Anne and her brother for their crimes of incest and adultery. This claim, though widespread in historical fiction, has no primary source support. There is no evidence that George and his wife had any marital problems, save for the lack of children which could be explained through many outlets. There is also no indication that Anne and Jane disliked each other. We can only speculate as to the reasons she did not come under the same scrutiny as the rest of the Boleyn faction during Anne's fall.
This book, while historically questionable, is still a fun read and I would recommend it, just be wary of citing any information from it.

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