ass tudor | 13 Surprising Facts About the Tudors

Tudor history. The very words conjure images of opulent courts, lavish gowns, scheming advisors, and the iron will of Henry VIII. We all know the big names: Henry himself, with his six wives and insatiable appetite for power; Anne Boleyn, the bewitching queen who met a tragic end; and Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen who steered England to a golden age. Their stories are woven into the fabric of our historical consciousness. But beyond these iconic figures lies a world teeming with lesser-known individuals, men and women who played vital roles in shaping the Tudor dynasty and deserve to have their stories told. While the "ass" in our title might raise eyebrows, it serves as a (perhaps controversial) entry point to exploring these hidden corners of Tudor history, reminding us that beneath the polished veneer of royalty and power lay the very human, often absurd, and sometimes downright scandalous realities of the era.

Beyond the Big Three: A Glimpse into the Tudor Undergrowth

The Tudor era was more than just a succession of monarchs and their romantic entanglements. It was a period of immense social, religious, and political upheaval. To truly understand it, we need to look beyond the headline acts and delve into the lives of the supporting cast. These were the individuals who, in their own way, contributed to the drama, intrigue, and ultimate success (or failure) of the Tudor project.

5 Badass Tudor Women You've Never Heard Of (or Should Have)

While Anne Boleyn and Elizabeth I get most of the attention, numerous other women displayed remarkable courage, intelligence, and resilience during the Tudor period. Here are just a few examples:

1. Anne Askew: This Lincolnshire noblewoman was a devout Protestant who openly challenged Catholic doctrines. Her unwavering faith and refusal to recant led to her brutal torture and execution in 1546. The "Tudor Minute" focusing on her execution underscores the religious persecution prevalent during the era and Askew's unwavering commitment to her beliefs. She became a martyr for the Protestant cause, her story inspiring others to stand up for their convictions.

2. Margaret Roper: The daughter of Sir Thomas More, Margaret was a brilliant scholar in her own right. She was fluent in Latin and Greek and played a crucial role in her father's intellectual life. Even more impressively, she fought tirelessly for his reputation and even retrieved his severed head after his execution, keeping it as a relic. Her devotion and courage in the face of unimaginable adversity are truly remarkable.

3. Catherine Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk: A close friend of Catherine Parr, Henry VIII's sixth wife, Catherine Brandon was a staunch Protestant reformer. She used her influence to promote the Protestant cause and protect reformers during the reigns of Henry VIII and Mary I. She even went into exile during Mary's reign to escape persecution, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her beliefs.

4. Jane Grey: While briefly queen, Jane Grey was a pawn in a political game. However, she was exceptionally intelligent, fiercely Protestant and dedicated to learning. She resisted the crown but was pushed into it, and ultimately sacrificed for it.

5. Bess of Hardwick: A formidable businesswoman and social climber, Bess of Hardwick rose from humble beginnings to become one of the wealthiest and most influential women in Elizabethan England. She built several magnificent houses, including Hardwick Hall, a testament to her ambition and architectural vision. Her story is a fascinating example of female agency and entrepreneurial spirit in a patriarchal society.

The Groom of the Stool: More Than Just a Toilet Attendant

Speaking of individuals in unexpected positions of influence, let's consider the Groom of the Stool. This might sound like a joke, but it was a highly prestigious and sought-after position at the Tudor court. The Groom of the Stool was responsible for attending to the monarch's… well, you get the picture. But the role was far more than just cleaning up.

Because of the Groom of the Stool's intimate access to the monarch, they became confidants, advisors, and even power brokers. They were privy to the king's innermost thoughts and secrets, and they could use this knowledge to their advantage. The position was typically held by a member of the gentry or nobility, further highlighting its significance. The Groom of the Stool serves as a stark reminder that power and influence in the Tudor court could manifest in the most unexpected of places.

The Ridiculous and the Real: Separating Fact from Fiction in "The Tudors"

The television series "The Tudors" brought the era to life for a modern audience, but it also took considerable liberties with historical accuracy. While entertaining, it's important to remember that it's a work of fiction, not a documentary.

The r/Tudorhistory subreddit often discusses the historical inaccuracies in the show, highlighting everything from anachronistic costumes to wildly exaggerated portrayals of historical figures. While the show might serve as a gateway to learning more about the Tudor period, it's crucial to consult reliable sources to get a more accurate understanding of the era.

For example, the show often sensationalized the sexual exploits of Henry VIII, portraying him as a perpetually horny and ruthless tyrant. While Henry certainly had his flaws, the show often exaggerated them for dramatic effect. Similarly, the show's depiction of Anne Boleyn was often criticized for being overly sympathetic, glossing over her own political ambitions and ruthlessness.