Was Elizabeth of York and Henry VII to Blame for Henry VIII’s Reign?

The question of blame for the actions of King Henry VIII often extends beyond his personal character to historical context. Was the responsibility to be placed on Elizabeth of York and Henry VII, his father, for instilling in him a certain regal demeanor and rulership philosophy that shaped his reign? This inquiry is complex and multifaceted, involving the nuances of royal succession, educational background, and physical and mental health factors.

Context of Royal Succession and Education

Henry VII and Elizabeth of York's royal ambitions did not foresee the early and unexpected death of their son Arthur, who was first in line to the throne. Arthur's untimely death paved the way for his younger brother, Henry, to assume the crown. Given the political and economic complexities of the time, it would have been impossible for them to prepare Henry for his role as monarch. Typically, a prince primarily trained for the priesthood if not groomed for the throne, there was no specific preparation to handle an unexpected ascension to the throne.

Henry's Character and Actions as King

Henry VIII, the younger brother who never intended to be king, was not only unprepared but also received a very different upbringing than what was expected. Instead of the disciplined and religious rigors that often accompanied a royal upbringing, young Henry was brought up under a more lenient and even indulgent regime. Throughout his childhood, Henry had to share the spotlight with his brother Arthur, and the loss of Arthur left a void in his life. It was a shift from being a support role to taking on the full responsibilities of kingship, a role he was not naturally inclined to embrace.

The Impact of Health and Personality

Henry VIII's health and personal characteristics are also key factors in understanding his reign. The young, chivalrous man who went to war at the request of Pope Julius II was transformed into the corpulent and often ill king who later became known for his excesses and marital challenges. His chronic health issues, including obesity and possible sexually transmitted infections, contributed to his difficult and often harsh demeanor. While his father, Henry VII, was indeed more frugal and disliked spending large sums of money, Henry VIII had a passion for luxury and indulgence that set him apart.

Economic Reforms During Henry VIII’s Reign

Contrary to the common narrative, Henry VIII's reign introduced some progressive policies that improved social welfare. One of the notable contributions during his reign was the introduction of minimum wages and price controls on staple foods. These measures were aimed at alleviating the burden of famine and stabilizing the economy, showing a concern for the well-being of the general population. Henry VIII's government also worked to prevent the export of staple foods to regulate domestic prices and ensure food supply. This emphasis on social policy demonstrated a level of responsibility and foresight that is often overlooked in discussions of his character.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

The question of whether Elizabeth of York and Henry VII were to blame for Henry VIII’s attitude during his reign is a critical one that requires a nuanced approach. While the unexpected death of Arthur and subsequent ascension to the throne certainly played a role, it is essential to consider the broader context, including personal growth, health challenges, and the introduction of social welfare reforms. Henry VII and Elizabeth of York were not solely responsible, but their actions and circumstances undoubtedly contributed to the environment in which Henry VIII found himself as king.

Keywords

Blame, Henry VIII, Elizabeth of York, Henry VII, royal succession