Реферат: Henry Viii Diary Essay Research Paper Henry

DATE: May 19th, 1536

Today I have had to have my dear wife Anne executed.

I have, unfortunately, had her spied on for the past three years, and have evidence of treason, adultery and incest.

I have specially had the headsman of St. Omer brought over. He is the deftest, most fashionable executioner today. He had brought with him his beautifully balanced sword. He placed the sword hidden in a heap of straw, then, he called out Bring me my sword , and as Anne turned towards that direction, he grabbed the sword and beheaded her before she knew what was happening.

The people, like I, were very pleased with the execution, though for different reasons.

DATE: October 12th, 1537

My dear wife Jane has bore me a son today. He will be Christened Edward. I am tremendously happy. London has gone wild with excitement. I am so ecstatic, as now I have a son an heir to the throne of England. The good Lord has lifted the curse on me. I held up my tiny son for all to see, and I wept with joy.

Amongst all of this excitement today, I have forgotten somewhat of my Queen Jane. She is ill with fever and is now becoming delirious. The midwives are gravely concerned. I am very worried over Jane, for I do love her.

DATE: June 22nd, 1543

The eternal peace has not lasted for long, less than twenty years though twenty years in politics is eternity!

A year ago I made a secret alliance with the Emperor of Spain to invade France and today, June 22nd1543, war has been declared on France.

The war had to be, as France has failed to keep up payments in English pensions and there are maritime disputes between our countries. Also, there is great struggle is Scotland between pro-English and pro-French factions.

I hope to cross the Channel to recover the crown of France when we defeat France

DATE: July 19th, 1545

The French, of more than 200 ships, have gathered at the Le Harve. Their aim is to attack Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight. They wish to win back control of the English Channel.

We are ready for them. Our navy is strong. The new vessels are equipped with powerful guns and the Mary Rose is our best, she is heavily armed.

Today, July 19 1545, at Portsmouth is very hot, I am having dinner on my flagship and the French ships, crowded with pikemen and musketeers, are approaching fast.

This afternoon, our great ships began to move. D Annebault, the French admiral will not like the look of them or of the harbour channels.

Catastrophe, what a dreadful spectacular catastrophe has struck us. Suddenly the great ship Mary Rose heeled over and sank. I am devastated. I cannot believe it. I cried out in vain and anguish at the horrid sight. Over 400 men on board, and only a few seem to be surviving.

DATE: December 12th, 1546

I feel terribly ill. I have once again a bout of fever. I also have rising blood pressure and severe headaches. I have kidney trouble and bad leg ulcers. I know I am dying.

I am now 55 years old and as I look out of the window I see the pleasant life of my palace continues. It is very cold today, I think it will snow tomorrow if not tonight. The gardeners are cleaning up the lawn and weeding the gardens. The musicians and choristers of the court are practicing and performing down stairs in the big hall.

I am worried and concerned for I believe the Duke of Norfolk and his son, the Earl of Surrey, it appears, have been dabbling in treason. They are a threat to Prince Edward, the heir apparent. I have decided, I must act now. I may not have much time. I must strike both men down, as I must guard my son and preserve the Tudor dynasty.

Today, December 12th, 1546, my guards have arrested Norfolk and Surrey and I have had them sent to the Tower. They now await trial.

DATE: January 27th, 1547

Today Norfolk has been condemned a high traitor by Act of Parliament. I am dying, I will see Cranmer soon but not yet, first I will take a sleep.

When Henry awoke, he could hardly speak. Around midnight the archbishop arrived, but Henry could not speak, all he could do was to press Cranmer s hand in a token of repentance and faith. Henry was dead by 2 a.m. He had reigned over England for nearly 38 years.

On February 16th, 1547, in St. George s Chapel in the royal vault, sixteen Yeomen of the guard lowered his great coffin down to lie besides that of Queen Jane.