The Autobiography of Henry VIII: With Notes by His Fool, Will Somers Summary & Key Insights

Margaret George's "The Autobiography of Henry VIII: With Notes by His Fool, Will Somers" cleverly presents Henry VIII's life through a dual narrative. Henry's supposed autobiography, written in his own voice, recounts his reign from a self-serving and often arrogant perspective, while interspersed "notes" from his jester, Will Somers, offer witty commentary and a contrasting, more grounded view. This structure allows George to explore the complexities of Henry's personality and the impact of his actions.

The main plot follows Henry's relentless pursuit of power and progeny, a driving force behind his six marriages. The book chronicles his early successes as a charismatic and capable king, his burgeoning fascination with the burgeoning humanist movement (contrasting with the traditional religious environment), and his deep ambition to secure a male heir. His growing frustration with Catherine of Aragon's failure to produce a surviving son leads to the annulment that fractures his relationship with the Catholic Church and triggers the English Reformation. The subsequent marriages – to Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr – are each portrayed as pivotal events shaped by Henry's desires and his advisors' manipulations. Each queen's character and fate are intricately woven into the narrative, highlighting Henry’s capricious nature and the devastating consequences of his decisions.

Key characters beyond Henry include his wives, each with distinct personalities and fates. Anne Boleyn's intelligence and defiance are presented alongside her tragic end. Jane Seymour's gentleness and her gift of a male heir (Edward VI) earns her a different kind of tragic fate: an early death. The others, Anne of Cleaves, Catherine Howard and Catherine Parr, each represent different aspects of Henry's shifting needs and desires, their stories underlining the brutality of the Tudor court. Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas Cromwell are significant figures, embodying conflicting influences on Henry's policies, representing the shifting tide of religious and political power. Finally, Will Somers' observations provide a crucial counterpoint, offering glimpses into the human side of the court, exposing the cruelty and absurdity of Henry's actions, and highlighting the suffering of those caught in his web.

Overarching themes explore the corrupting influence of absolute power, the fragility of human relationships, and the consequences of ambition unchecked. The book also examines the clash between religious tradition and emerging humanist ideas, as Henry's personal desires intertwined with the political and religious landscape of 16th-century England. Through the contrasting voices of Henry and Will Somers, George offers a nuanced portrayal of a historical figure, revealing both the grandeur and the grim reality of his reign. The narrative deftly balances historical accuracy with a compelling fictional framework, making it both an informative and engaging read.