Catherine of Aragon

When studying the era of Tudor England, specifically Henry VIII, much concentration is placed on the king himself. Little is known of his six wives except that he had so many. Garrett Mattingly, one of the more knowledgeable historians of this time period devotes and entire paper on Henry's first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Mattingly writes in a clear concise manner that allows amateur and professional historians alike to follow the events and be entertained. Well worth the read for insight on Catherine which concentrates on the queen instead of Henry.

Mattingly sets forth in very lucid prose the amazing and seldom told story of a woman noble in character as well as birth. Catherine of Aragon, daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, is the first wife of England's Henry VIII. Though a foreigner, to the end she is deeply loved by the English people. But that does not save her from Henry's machiavellian machinery when she fails to produce a male heir to secure the Tudor dynasty. Although she eventually loses the battle, we see a woman of lion-like courage, refusing to buckle in an age of moral compromise. Her stubborn dedication to both church and country, and her deep love for her husband, make her a spiritual example to Catholics & Protestants alike. One wonders if there is any other figure of her time who comes off half so glowing. In a word, integrity! This is the English Reformation told from Catherine's perspective-- a fascinating tale and well worth the read.