A. Anne’s Return to England
- Around 1522, Anne returned to England from France.
- Unlike many ladies-in-waiting, Anne possessed a distinct charm, wit, and strong personality.
- She quickly attracted attention for her intelligence and fashion sense.
B. The King Notices
- By 1525-26, Henry’s interest in Anne grew beyond courtly admiration.
- Anne refused to become the king’s mistress, insisting on marriage or nothing.
- Her resistance only increased Henry’s fascination, setting the stage for unprecedented upheaval.
The Courtship and Its Challenges
A. The King’s Determination
- Henry sought an annulment from Catherine, claiming their marriage was invalid due to her previous marriage to his brother.
- This quest led to a break with the Roman Catholic Church and the English Reformation.
- Anne’s position as queen consort hinged on this political and religious revolution.
B. Anne’s Influence and Ambition
- Anne was politically savvy and aware of her power.
- She championed reformist ideas and surrounded herself with humanists and scholars.
- Her support for religious change made her a controversial figure. shutdown123