Section 2, Chapter 1 Flashcards
Henry's religious beliefs, position of Catherine in England and abroad, the role of Anne and Wolsey
What were Henry VIII’s religious beliefs?
- He was deeply interested in theology and was often described as Humanist.
- He regarded himself as owing obedience to the Pope.
- He was named ‘Defender of the Faith’ when he challenged Martin Luther’s beliefs.
How had the relations between Catherine and Henry declined by 1527?
- After 18 years of marriage Catherine had failed to produce a male heir - her last pregnancy was in 1518.
- Henry desired a boy so badly because of the War of the Roses; and it was said by 1527 marital relations between the two had ceased.
What was the role of Chapuys in Henry’s annulment?
In May of 1527 Chapuys made a report to Charles V informing him that Henry had secretly assembled a group of bishops and lawyers to sign a declaration that his marriage was null and void. The ambassador stated that Henry had neglected to tell Catherine anything.
What were the reasons Henry wanted an annulment?
- Securing the dynasty.
- Catherine was unlikely to be able to provide a son.
- France began to be seen as a ally - Spain a new enemy.
What was Catherine’s response to the annulment?
Catherine’s argument was based on religious principles; her marriage to Henry VIII was valid as not only had her marriage to Arthur not been consummated, but there had also been a papal dispensation to allow her to marry her dead husband’s brother. In the eyes of the Catholic Church marriage was sacred and a sacrament, meaning once two people are joined in matrimony they could not be separated.
What was Henry’s first strategy for getting an annulment?
- Wolsey asserted the original dispensation was insufficient in law.
- They used extracts from Leviticus emphasising that if a brother married his dead brothers wife the couple would be childless.
Why was the first strategy of annulment rejected?
The Pope was never going to admit one of his predecessors was wrong.
What was the second strategy to getting an annulment?
Henry decided to challenge the original dispensation - arguing that the legal wording of the document was invalid.
Why did the second method to getting annulment get rejected?
An alternative version of the dispensation was found among papers of Charles V which made the annulment valid.
What was the third strategy to getting an annulment?
Wolsey tried to persuade the Pope to transfer the case of the annulment to England.
What happened in the third attempt for the annulment?
The Pope eventually agrees but said the case must be presided over by two representatives from Rome and the Pope reserved the right to accept or reject the judgement.
What happened at Blackfriars in 1529?
- A court was set up and Cardinal Campeggio was to preside over the events.
- Wolsey had intended to put pressure on Campeggio but this plan was ruined by Catherine’s account.
- In July Campeggio announced that the court was adjourned and moved to Rome.
Who were the supporters of Catherine?
Within England:
- Thomas More
- John Fisher
Internationally:
- Charles V
What were Wolsey’s reasonings for getting Henry his divorce?
- Wolsey wanted to keep his position.
- It would mean that the Duke of Norfolk would be in debt to Wolsey.
- Anne would provide links with France.
- Own personal gain.
When did Henry and Anne first start seeing each other?
1526
