Female perspective on intrigue at court
SIX WIVES WITH LUCY WORSLEY BBC One, Wednesday, 10.40pm
IN A groundbreaking approach to drama and history, historian Lucy Worsley travels back in time to the Tudor Court to witness some of the most dramatic moments in the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives.
Combining drama with her own contemporary historical comment, Lucy moves seamlessly from the present to the past, appearing as a range of silent servants – a maid, a midwife, a nursemaid.
The Tudor court was made up of a small group of powerful families all vying for power. While it was a world run by men and the king had ultimate power, each queen found her own unique methods of exerting influence. It is these women’s stories that Lucy wants to uncover, witness and explore, as well as offering a new perspective on Henry himself.
This landmark series provides a fresh take on a familiar story, focusing on the women central to this significant period and uncovering private moments reported by eyewitnesses or recorded in historical documents.
In the first episode, Lucy sees the early passion of young Henry and his first wife, the Spanish princess Katherine of Aragon. Lucy follows Katherine through her emotional and physical struggles to give Henry the heir he needs to continue his dynasty.
Sixteen years into their marriage – after five failed pregnancies, four stillbirths and one infant death – Katherine finally has a baby who lives. The only problem is that it’s a girl. Henry’s eye wanders to the ladies at court – first to Mary Boleyn, then to her sister Anne...