Report on Henry VIII as a new king, writing as ambassador to France

Authors Avatar by jessiiee (student)

Your Majesty of France,

I write with news of the new King of England – Henry VIII; my report I hope you will find most enlightening.

The King appears to be to all those who greet him a charming, talented and ambitious young man who enjoys many sports and is well tutored. Indeed, Erasmus himself spoke of the King as a “universal genius” with a “lively mentality which reached for the stars”. However I am concerned about a number of the new King’s characteristics. He is impetuous and often does not seem to think through the consequences of his actions, especially when it comes to executing members of his court.

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Of course some faults are to be expected as Henry VIII was never trained to become the next monarch, as his elder brother was expected to succeed the throne, but the fact that his father gave him no responsibility is worrying – I wonder if he was not trusted? Or maybe Henry VII saw a different, more arbitrary side to his son than the rest of the kingdom sees?

Henry VIII does appear to be interested in foreign affairs and speaks many languages well, suggesting another diplomatic ruler, although he appears determined to go to war – especially with our ...

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