HENRY VIII
About the Play:
Henry VIII is a collaborative history play that was written by William Shakespeare and John Fletcher. It centers around the life of King Henry VIII. Initially known by the alternative title "All Is True" in contemporary records, the play was eventually published as "Henry VIII" in the First Folio of 1623. Stylistic clues suggest that either Shakespeare or his collaborator, John Fletcher, authored certain scenes. The play's structure bears resemblance to the late romances, and interestingly, it contains more stage directions than any other work by Shakespeare.
Summary of the Play:
Act I: A Prologue sets the stage, narrating actual events to unfold. The Duke of Buckingham and other nobles express concerns over Cardinal Wolsey's growing influence and power. Buckingham's arrest for treason confirms their fears, leading to a trial.
King Henry presides over policy decisions at court, with Queen Katherine questioning Wolsey's motives. Despite agreeing to listen to criticism, the King refuses to spare Buckingham from trial. Wolsey hosts a grand feast at Hampton, attended by nobles, including Lady Anne Boleyn. The King and his friends arrive in disguise, and a dance ensues, with Henry choosing Anne as his partner.
Act II: Back in London, Buckingham faces false witnesses and addresses the crowds before his execution. Rumors of Wolsey's power and potential divorce between the King and Queen Katherine spread at court. Anne Boleyn hears the rumors but is eventually won over by the King's favors.
A trial for the divorce takes place, but Queen Katherine demands advisers from Spain, leading to a confrontation with Wolsey. The divorce proceeds despite her resistance. Henry's secret marriage to Anne becomes public knowledge, while Wolsey's opposition to the divorce is discovered, leading to his resignation.
Act III: Queen Katherine seeks solace but is persuaded to submit to the King's wishes by Wolsey and Campeus. However, the divorce is finalized. Henry secretly marries Anne Boleyn, and Wolsey's death reaches Queen Katherine in her retirement.
Act IV: Queen Anne is crowned in a splendid ceremony at court. Meanwhile, gossip circulates about Queen Anne's baby daughter and charges against the new Archbishop, Cranmer. After a struggle, Cranmer is defended by the King and named the godfather of Princess Elizabeth.
Act V: Court gossip continues, and Cranmer is eventually vindicated. He baptizes Princess Elizabeth and prophesies a bright future for her and England.
An Epilogue seeks the audience's approval for the historical play depicting the birth of their Queen.
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