Henry VIII
Henry VIII by William Shakespeare, published by National Geographic Books on January 26, 2016, is a history play that explores a pivotal moment in the Tudor dynasty and the onset of the English Reformation. This edition, comprising 304 pages, is presented in English and includes an introduction by C.M.S. Alexander and editing by A.R. Humphreys. The narrative unfolds in the court of Henry VIII, where conspiracies and intrigue abound, particularly surrounding the Duke of Buckingham’s execution for treason and the King’s tumultuous relationship with Anne Boleyn.
Readers will find a detailed examination of the political and personal conflicts that shape the era, including the King’s decision to divorce Katherine of Aragon, which leads to significant repercussions with the Catholic Church. This edition also features a general introduction to Shakespeare’s life and Elizabethan theatre, a specific introduction to Henry VIII, a chronology, and suggestions for further reading. Additionally, it includes an essay discussing performance options on both stage and screen, along with commentary that enhances the understanding of this complex historical drama.
Official synopsis Publisher
William Shakespeare’s Henry VIII is a compelling history play, recreating a crucial moment in the Tudor dynasty, and the events that marked the beginning of the English Reformation. This Penguin Shakespeare edition is edited by A.R. Humphreys, with an introduction by C.M.S. Alexander.
‘O, how wretched
Is that poor man that hangs on princes’ favours!’
Conspiracies and intrigue are rife in the court of Henry VIII as the Duke of Buckingham is executed for treason, having been tricked by his enemy Cardinal Wolsey. And when the King falls in love with Anne Boleyn and decides to divorce his wife, Katherine of Aragon, he causes an irrevocable rift with the Catholic Church. After the King’s secret marriage to Anne, courtiers fall in and out of favour and deaths abound, with far-reaching consequences.
This book contains a general introduction to Shakespeare’s life and Elizabethan theatre, a separate introduction to Henry VIII, a chronology, suggestions for further reading, an essay discussing performance options on both stage and screen, and a commentary.
If you enjoyed Henry VIII, you might like Richard II, also available in Penguin Shakespeare.
‘If we wish to know the force of human genius we should read Shakespeare’
William Hazlitt
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