What do you think?
Rate this book
The King is Dead: The Last Will and Testament of Henry VIII
On 28 January 1547, the sickly and obese King Henry VIII died at Whitehall. Just hours before his passing, his last will and testament had been read, stamped, and sealed. The will confirmed the line of succession as Edward, Mary, and Elizabeth; and, following them, the Grey and Suffolk families. It also listed bequests to the king's most trusted councillors and servants.
Henry's will is one of the most intriguing and contested documents in British history. Historians have disagreed over its intended meaning, its authenticity and validity, and the circumstances of its creation. As well as examining the background to the drafting of the will and describing Henry's last days, Suzannah Lipscomb offers her own illuminating interpretation of one of the most significant constitutional documents of the Tudor period.
Illustrated with portraits of the key figures at Henry's court, The King is Dead is as boldly evocative as it is beautiful—a work of Tudor history to cherish.
Henry's will is one of the most intriguing and contested documents in British history. Historians have disagreed over its intended meaning, its authenticity and validity, and the circumstances of its creation. As well as examining the background to the drafting of the will and describing Henry's last days, Suzannah Lipscomb offers her own illuminating interpretation of one of the most significant constitutional documents of the Tudor period.
Illustrated with portraits of the key figures at Henry's court, The King is Dead is as boldly evocative as it is beautiful—a work of Tudor history to cherish.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2015
64 people are currently reading
2153 people want to read
About the author
Suzannah Lipscomb
16 books743 followersProf Suzannah Lipscomb is Professor Emerita in History at the University of Roehampton. She is the author of 1536: The Year that Changed Henry VIII, A Visitor's Companion to Tudor England, The King is Dead: The Last Will and Testament of Henry VIII, Witchcraft, and The Voices of Nimes: Women, Sex and Marriage in Reformation Languedoc. She edited, with Helen Carr, What is History, Now? (out 2021). She also writes and presents television programmes, including series on Henry VIII and his Six Wives, Witches: A Century of Murder, and Elizabeth I; hosts the podcast Not Just the Tudors from History Hit, and writes a regular column for History Today.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 2, 2017
Superb! This is everything an historic study of a document and the times in which it was formatted should be. But absolutely and rarely is.
It holds one single subject, Henry VIII's wills and especially his Last Will and Testament. One subject and not 1000's of other much later or much earlier crosscut documents and changes. It has oodles of full plate reproductions. And a complete transcription in the original language and form in the Appendix I. Appendix II also includes a list of Henry VIII's inventory upon his death.
Does that assume that there is no interpretation of history, rather than displaying the real evidence that is still left to prove authentic? No. But in giving us portraits and minutia rundown of all the characters' interplay of the hour, under characters and their associations toward alliances for religious dictates, power of ownership to estates, and other governmental directorships during the last years of Henry's reign and the first 2 years after his death! Well, it's just an incredible study.
A study not only to what happened, but to what could have happened. And also a framing of Henry VIII's true core, perceptions, cognition and goals- like none I've seen before.
After reading probably 40 to 50 books in both fiction and non-fiction to his church schism, his wife changes, his power mongering and direction to both English territory and to taking over the monasteries! And let's not leave out the Lady Jane Grey and Anne Boleyn books by the dozens, either. This discloses more in about 200 pages than the 700 plus page tomes. Any of them I've read, that's a surety.
This one is the closest to encapsulating Henry's psyche as any I have ever come across. Lipscomb is a meticulous recorder and gives proofs in exact copy of Henry's hand rather than her own "explanation" of what he conceived at the time and what his entire will proscribed for future possibility. This is a will that gives many successive or possible scenarios. It omits his oldest sister's offspring in Scotland. And it absolutely entrenches a 16 member council for the underage boy king. Which did NOT occur as he wished.
This also includes life positions for those 10 or 20 characters most involved at his deathbed times in changes. And in effect, for those who were murderous in their religious zeal. BOTH SIDES. It was horrific how many were tortured or fell because of "wrong" religious interpretation.
Henry's language more than any other evidence says where he stood. As head of a Church that clearly held 90% or more Catholic cognition for the teachings, services and practical applications for a reformed "true" religion. But one in which there were only 3 sacraments. Penance and good works being central, as in Catholicism. Saints and Mary also central stage. But a Church in which reform did not at all instill a moment of being "saved" becoming sufficient. And one in which personal responsibility, right and purposeful actions were central. His Church was nothing like the Protestant sects that flourished just beyond his lifespan.
That's only one aspect of obvious observance by looking at his papers, his seals, his "dry seal" signature and what that meant at the time and later what historians posited it meant. (Completely opposite assumptions.)
She also disproves several other historical theories built upon personality "proof". Henry had every portion of wiles he ever owned until his last breath. It was his horrific physical condition that tended to cover the truth of his continued top notch mental vacuity.
It's worth reading for the few paragraphs alone in which she describes how deep were the eggshells to walk upon for/ to the 5 or 6 closest to Henry to break the verbal knowledge/acceptance to him that his death was approaching, and swiftly. K. Parr and others were of the highest wit and diplomacy in that last year. And also in the fact that he did NOT have Last Rites and died with Crammer holding his hand.
If you have any interest in the Tudors, the Reformation, how the very connotation of the English language has altered- read this book.
A full three of the scenarios Henry described did play out. He listed 3 more after that "possible". Those present and those in power associations? They barely saw the first.
There are full page plates of portrays galore. Many first degree reproduction scanning materials and the language/ style used holds a perfect flow.
It holds one single subject, Henry VIII's wills and especially his Last Will and Testament. One subject and not 1000's of other much later or much earlier crosscut documents and changes. It has oodles of full plate reproductions. And a complete transcription in the original language and form in the Appendix I. Appendix II also includes a list of Henry VIII's inventory upon his death.
Does that assume that there is no interpretation of history, rather than displaying the real evidence that is still left to prove authentic? No. But in giving us portraits and minutia rundown of all the characters' interplay of the hour, under characters and their associations toward alliances for religious dictates, power of ownership to estates, and other governmental directorships during the last years of Henry's reign and the first 2 years after his death! Well, it's just an incredible study.
A study not only to what happened, but to what could have happened. And also a framing of Henry VIII's true core, perceptions, cognition and goals- like none I've seen before.
After reading probably 40 to 50 books in both fiction and non-fiction to his church schism, his wife changes, his power mongering and direction to both English territory and to taking over the monasteries! And let's not leave out the Lady Jane Grey and Anne Boleyn books by the dozens, either. This discloses more in about 200 pages than the 700 plus page tomes. Any of them I've read, that's a surety.
This one is the closest to encapsulating Henry's psyche as any I have ever come across. Lipscomb is a meticulous recorder and gives proofs in exact copy of Henry's hand rather than her own "explanation" of what he conceived at the time and what his entire will proscribed for future possibility. This is a will that gives many successive or possible scenarios. It omits his oldest sister's offspring in Scotland. And it absolutely entrenches a 16 member council for the underage boy king. Which did NOT occur as he wished.
This also includes life positions for those 10 or 20 characters most involved at his deathbed times in changes. And in effect, for those who were murderous in their religious zeal. BOTH SIDES. It was horrific how many were tortured or fell because of "wrong" religious interpretation.
Henry's language more than any other evidence says where he stood. As head of a Church that clearly held 90% or more Catholic cognition for the teachings, services and practical applications for a reformed "true" religion. But one in which there were only 3 sacraments. Penance and good works being central, as in Catholicism. Saints and Mary also central stage. But a Church in which reform did not at all instill a moment of being "saved" becoming sufficient. And one in which personal responsibility, right and purposeful actions were central. His Church was nothing like the Protestant sects that flourished just beyond his lifespan.
That's only one aspect of obvious observance by looking at his papers, his seals, his "dry seal" signature and what that meant at the time and later what historians posited it meant. (Completely opposite assumptions.)
She also disproves several other historical theories built upon personality "proof". Henry had every portion of wiles he ever owned until his last breath. It was his horrific physical condition that tended to cover the truth of his continued top notch mental vacuity.
It's worth reading for the few paragraphs alone in which she describes how deep were the eggshells to walk upon for/ to the 5 or 6 closest to Henry to break the verbal knowledge/acceptance to him that his death was approaching, and swiftly. K. Parr and others were of the highest wit and diplomacy in that last year. And also in the fact that he did NOT have Last Rites and died with Crammer holding his hand.
If you have any interest in the Tudors, the Reformation, how the very connotation of the English language has altered- read this book.
A full three of the scenarios Henry described did play out. He listed 3 more after that "possible". Those present and those in power associations? They barely saw the first.
There are full page plates of portrays galore. Many first degree reproduction scanning materials and the language/ style used holds a perfect flow.
February 25, 2017
The Tudors seem to be one of the English dynasties of continuing interest to us. There have been very successful books including Wolf Hall, as well as many television series including The Tudors (not to mention a continual parade of movies). Henry VIII ruled for four decades in which he: became the head of the Church of England, less than successfully pursued territorial claims in France, and, sought to ensure the continuation of his line by fathering a son. His rule saw much that separated England from Europe and created enemies. Henry was keenly aware that all that was Tudor would hang in the balance at his death.
Lipscomb sticks to her subject matter but adroitly employs both research and analysis to provide excellent context for the actual will. She makes a persuasive case that this will is the embodiment of Henry’s concerns. As is the case with many of great wealth and power, they believe that they can (often that they must!) control their world from beyond the grave. Henry was certainly one of those.
Henry made or revised his will with some frequency. Part of that was due to his untidy marriages and dalliances, but that was only part of the reason. Henry never forgot that that there was dispute about the Tudor line’s legitimacy to rule. Further, there were questions about his daughters’ position in the line of succession --- questions that he sought to put to rest by Acts of Parliament that declared them illegitimate. Finally, though he created the Church of England separate from the Church of Rome, it was not a done deal and the growth of an evangelical faction (at Court and throughout England) was another element of destabilization. Her analysis points to his severe injury (almost ten years before his death) that may have fostered a personality change making him almost maniacal in his determination to control each element of his fate. She adroitly uses this document to enlighten us on how the world appeared to Henry VIII at the end of his life.
Lipscomb takes us through Henry’s last days: his desire to change certain elements of the previous will; the fact that many earlier wills were still around; and, Henry was sure that the most recent one had not been retrieved. This constitutes a very moving account of a frail man knowing his time is near. She shows that Henry was aware of the factions, yet much more concerned with his courtiers’ ability to bend to his wishes (or in the words of Jean-Luc Picard, to “make it so”). Those who did not subjugate (at least overtly) their desires to Henry’s were likely to find themselves discarded or eliminated. The changes in the last will (can this be a spoiler?) were primarily finalizing the list of those who would act as regents until the young king was old enough to rule.
For those who have been liberally doused with the world of the Tudors, this is fascinating stuff and a valuable addition to understanding this period. I agree with Hilary Mantel (the author of Wolf Hall) when she stated: “A genuinely useful and discriminating guide for all Tudor fans…It helps to see the world as the Tudors must have seen it.”
Lipscomb sticks to her subject matter but adroitly employs both research and analysis to provide excellent context for the actual will. She makes a persuasive case that this will is the embodiment of Henry’s concerns. As is the case with many of great wealth and power, they believe that they can (often that they must!) control their world from beyond the grave. Henry was certainly one of those.
Henry made or revised his will with some frequency. Part of that was due to his untidy marriages and dalliances, but that was only part of the reason. Henry never forgot that that there was dispute about the Tudor line’s legitimacy to rule. Further, there were questions about his daughters’ position in the line of succession --- questions that he sought to put to rest by Acts of Parliament that declared them illegitimate. Finally, though he created the Church of England separate from the Church of Rome, it was not a done deal and the growth of an evangelical faction (at Court and throughout England) was another element of destabilization. Her analysis points to his severe injury (almost ten years before his death) that may have fostered a personality change making him almost maniacal in his determination to control each element of his fate. She adroitly uses this document to enlighten us on how the world appeared to Henry VIII at the end of his life.
Lipscomb takes us through Henry’s last days: his desire to change certain elements of the previous will; the fact that many earlier wills were still around; and, Henry was sure that the most recent one had not been retrieved. This constitutes a very moving account of a frail man knowing his time is near. She shows that Henry was aware of the factions, yet much more concerned with his courtiers’ ability to bend to his wishes (or in the words of Jean-Luc Picard, to “make it so”). Those who did not subjugate (at least overtly) their desires to Henry’s were likely to find themselves discarded or eliminated. The changes in the last will (can this be a spoiler?) were primarily finalizing the list of those who would act as regents until the young king was old enough to rule.
For those who have been liberally doused with the world of the Tudors, this is fascinating stuff and a valuable addition to understanding this period. I agree with Hilary Mantel (the author of Wolf Hall) when she stated: “A genuinely useful and discriminating guide for all Tudor fans…It helps to see the world as the Tudors must have seen it.”
March 3, 2017
It has often been alleged that the will of King Henry VIII was doctored in order to give power to those figures seeking to hold control over the governance of King Edward, his son. Suzannah Lipscomb explores this possible conspiracy, the end days of Henry, and the drafting of the will before offering her own interpretation of its contents in, “The King is Dead: The Last Will and Testament of Henry VIII”.
“The King is Dead” is a very short and quick thesis uniquely focusing solely on Henry VIII’s will. The pages kick off with a brief overview of Henry VIII’s personality and current events during the latter part of his life which Lipscomb argues imparted the detailing of his will through pure psychological responses on Henry’s part, if nothing else. These opening chapters serve as a mere introduction to Henry and do not venture into the nitty-gritty of the subject matter which can cause some readers to be enticed to skip ahead to the main attraction of the piece.
Following this, Lipscomb observes the mental and physical state of Henry VIII at the time preceding his death plus the actual creation of his will arguing for his sanity and against any tampering. Lipscomb impresses with both her research and focus but the issue with “The King is Dead” is the thin, flimsy look. It feels that Lipscomb doesn’t dive deep and doesn’t convincingly rebut any point. Lipscomb has the habit of simply stating an idea of hers and more or less says that is how it is. This formula doesn’t sway the reader and neither does it make “The Kind is Dead” strong, memorable reading. The pages of the text almost come across as a summary or outline for a lecture versus an in-depth discussion. Lipscomb’s writing language is academic; it is just glossing over the content.
Lipscomb attempts to debunk myths and modern-day hypotheses but pages go by with the reader seemingly left in the cold. The will is discussed but not to the level that one expects from “The King is Dead”.
The concluding chapters of “The King is Dead” focuses on the interpretation of Henry’s will and ‘why’ certain articles were included. These point dissections are the highlight within “The King is Dead” although Lipscomb still continues to hold back on the material. Basically, “The King is Dead” is a unique topic/perspective but it is too much of a quick overview.
In true Lipscomb fashion, the appendices serve as the best parts in “The King is Dead” An appendix covers the transcription of Henry’s full will captivating the reader, while another lists council personnel involved in/mentioned in Henry’s will, as the final section offers some goods from an inventory of Henry’s possessions post-death. These are compelling areas and strengthen the reading.
Lipscomb follows this with some lightly annotated ‘Notes’ and a bibliography. “The King is Dead” also contains not one, not two, but three color plate sections of photos with occasional black and white images strewn throughout the text, as well. Graphically, “The King is Dead” is certainly heightened.
“The King is Dead” is best described as a ‘romp’ on a topic discussed by others but not given full-attention, sadly, until Lipscomb took matters into her own hands. For this, she receives all credit due. Unfortunately, “The King is Dead” is a disappointment based on what is expected from the text. Lipscomb’s work serves as a great introduction and a riveting, fresh angle/topic but more meat is needed on the bone skeleton to truly make it a standout piece. “The King is Dead” had potential but merely fell short. Despite these flaws, “The King is Dead” is suggested for all Tudor and Henry VIII devotees as even considering the thin-traits; Lipscomb’s work is unique and worth the quick (1-2 day) read.
“The King is Dead” is a very short and quick thesis uniquely focusing solely on Henry VIII’s will. The pages kick off with a brief overview of Henry VIII’s personality and current events during the latter part of his life which Lipscomb argues imparted the detailing of his will through pure psychological responses on Henry’s part, if nothing else. These opening chapters serve as a mere introduction to Henry and do not venture into the nitty-gritty of the subject matter which can cause some readers to be enticed to skip ahead to the main attraction of the piece.
Following this, Lipscomb observes the mental and physical state of Henry VIII at the time preceding his death plus the actual creation of his will arguing for his sanity and against any tampering. Lipscomb impresses with both her research and focus but the issue with “The King is Dead” is the thin, flimsy look. It feels that Lipscomb doesn’t dive deep and doesn’t convincingly rebut any point. Lipscomb has the habit of simply stating an idea of hers and more or less says that is how it is. This formula doesn’t sway the reader and neither does it make “The Kind is Dead” strong, memorable reading. The pages of the text almost come across as a summary or outline for a lecture versus an in-depth discussion. Lipscomb’s writing language is academic; it is just glossing over the content.
Lipscomb attempts to debunk myths and modern-day hypotheses but pages go by with the reader seemingly left in the cold. The will is discussed but not to the level that one expects from “The King is Dead”.
The concluding chapters of “The King is Dead” focuses on the interpretation of Henry’s will and ‘why’ certain articles were included. These point dissections are the highlight within “The King is Dead” although Lipscomb still continues to hold back on the material. Basically, “The King is Dead” is a unique topic/perspective but it is too much of a quick overview.
In true Lipscomb fashion, the appendices serve as the best parts in “The King is Dead” An appendix covers the transcription of Henry’s full will captivating the reader, while another lists council personnel involved in/mentioned in Henry’s will, as the final section offers some goods from an inventory of Henry’s possessions post-death. These are compelling areas and strengthen the reading.
Lipscomb follows this with some lightly annotated ‘Notes’ and a bibliography. “The King is Dead” also contains not one, not two, but three color plate sections of photos with occasional black and white images strewn throughout the text, as well. Graphically, “The King is Dead” is certainly heightened.
“The King is Dead” is best described as a ‘romp’ on a topic discussed by others but not given full-attention, sadly, until Lipscomb took matters into her own hands. For this, she receives all credit due. Unfortunately, “The King is Dead” is a disappointment based on what is expected from the text. Lipscomb’s work serves as a great introduction and a riveting, fresh angle/topic but more meat is needed on the bone skeleton to truly make it a standout piece. “The King is Dead” had potential but merely fell short. Despite these flaws, “The King is Dead” is suggested for all Tudor and Henry VIII devotees as even considering the thin-traits; Lipscomb’s work is unique and worth the quick (1-2 day) read.
January 12, 2016
Just when I think that nothing new can ever be written about Henry 8th, along comes something different. A few years back Suzannah Lipscomb wrote about a pivotal year in Henry's life, his annus horribilis of 1536.
In The King is Dead Lipscomb explores the last days of Henry, the drafting of the will and the fallout following his death.
She's not afraid to take on the heavyweights of Tudor history writing when she disagrees with them (Starkey, Ives etc) and is very persuasive in her arguments and points of view.
The book benefits from being absolutely gorgeous. It's square, printed on creamy, almost parchment like paper and has fabulous, beautifully reproduced illustrations. These include many portraits by Holbein of the courtiers mentioned in the book.
I borrowed this book from my local library and didn't want to return it - it's a book to keep and treasure.
In The King is Dead Lipscomb explores the last days of Henry, the drafting of the will and the fallout following his death.
She's not afraid to take on the heavyweights of Tudor history writing when she disagrees with them (Starkey, Ives etc) and is very persuasive in her arguments and points of view.
The book benefits from being absolutely gorgeous. It's square, printed on creamy, almost parchment like paper and has fabulous, beautifully reproduced illustrations. These include many portraits by Holbein of the courtiers mentioned in the book.
I borrowed this book from my local library and didn't want to return it - it's a book to keep and treasure.
January 17, 2021
What I love about this is that Suzannah Lipscomb took a topic generally agreed upon by current and past historians, turned it on its head, and gave detailed explanations as to why she's right. I don't have much of an opinion myself on the veracity of Henry VIII's will or even his religion, but I do find it interesting to read about them. The facsimiles of the original documents, as well as the inclusion of Henry's final will (verbatim with original spelling) were fascinating to look through. I've had an interest in the Tudors ever since I read a biography of Anne Boleyn in the seventh grade, so I usually find any book about them to be interesting. This one was no exception. I've been meaning to read Lipscomb's work for years, and this was a good introduction.
August 15, 2021
This book demonstrates many of the most praiseworthy aspects of contemporary historical approach, and that is the way that it can shine attention through a close study of neglected and obscure historical texts--in this case the last will and testament of King Henry VIII. What this book does, and I think does well, is to demonstrate that however racked with pain the king was during the last few months of his life that he was sufficiently in control of events while he lived to craft a will that sought to establish the rule of his young son on a sound footing. To be sure, none of us can hope to control events after we are dead even to the limited degree we can control events during our lives, no matter how powerful we are, but the author's close examination of the text of Henry's will demonstrates that he desired to ensure the survival of his dynasty's rule through establishing the support of a wide group of the English elites and that if these plans were ultimately frustrated it was not for lack of effort on his part. If you have an interest in Tudor history this is a short volume of less than 200 pages (including the full text of the will itself) that is well worth reading.
December 25, 2016
An interesting & well researched look at Henry's will and the aftermath. I especially appreciated the detail included, i.e. the will itself (included in its entirety with the original spelling) along with other historical documents & many beautiful portraits.
Even after reading quite a bit about Henry, I am always fascinated how he still referred to himself as Defender of the Faith & stipulated in his will that masses and prayers were to be said for his soul even after breaking away from the Catholic Church and dissolving monasteries. This quote from Suzannah Lipscomb sums Henry up pretty well for me " While there is much religiosity in the will, there is, however little sense of a personal relationship with the Divine beyond that of one monarch addressing another."
Even after reading quite a bit about Henry, I am always fascinated how he still referred to himself as Defender of the Faith & stipulated in his will that masses and prayers were to be said for his soul even after breaking away from the Catholic Church and dissolving monasteries. This quote from Suzannah Lipscomb sums Henry up pretty well for me " While there is much religiosity in the will, there is, however little sense of a personal relationship with the Divine beyond that of one monarch addressing another."
August 20, 2017
A highly recommended read for anyone who enjoys English history especially the Tudor dynasty! This book examines the last will and testament of one of the most famous and infamous kings in all of history. The complexities of succession, the division of property , and the establishing of the privy council are all explained in detail as well as the complex relationships between the dying king and his confidants.
June 14, 2019
First of all, the artwork in this book is stunning, from the beautiful cover to the full size colour recreations of all the portraits of interests of King Henry and his family. There are portraits of his Queens and all the people of interest at his court, which was a helpful addition for me. I'd always wanted a good copy of some of these and was pleased to find them here. There is also the full will of the King to read which is a fascinating document, along with the provisions of the will and useful lists of those who were governing and their positions after the King's death.
The author takes the time to go into the will itself, looking at all the debate about the will either being fake or altered after the King's death. She gives her reasons why it is genuine and backs that up with evidence. She puts in the conflicting opinions of other historians then argues why she doesn't agree with them. It is very in depth and I feel like she really wanted to show the reader why she believed in what she was saying and was setting out her case clearly. The book also looks at the last decade and last year of his life, showing the political and religious situation which is so relevant to what went into his will. This was the first book I read by the author although I have seen TV shows she has done on the Tudors, but I would be interested in reading more of her work as I really enjoyed this unique book.
The author takes the time to go into the will itself, looking at all the debate about the will either being fake or altered after the King's death. She gives her reasons why it is genuine and backs that up with evidence. She puts in the conflicting opinions of other historians then argues why she doesn't agree with them. It is very in depth and I feel like she really wanted to show the reader why she believed in what she was saying and was setting out her case clearly. The book also looks at the last decade and last year of his life, showing the political and religious situation which is so relevant to what went into his will. This was the first book I read by the author although I have seen TV shows she has done on the Tudors, but I would be interested in reading more of her work as I really enjoyed this unique book.
December 28, 2015
After having Suzannah Lipscombs previous books "1536: The Year that changed Henry VIII" and "A Visitors Companion" to Tudor England" I had high hopes for this book, and I was not disappointed.
Henry's last will written in the last month of his life, is a topic that has been debated many times over the last four hundred years, historians have disagreed over its meaning, and whether or not it was entirely his or if it was the work of ambitious councillors. In this excellent work, Suzannah dispels that myth, believing it to be entirely Henry's own wish.
Suzannah has delved into existing primary sources, and letters written by Privy Councillors to put her case forward, it is an excellent piece of research. I especially like how Suzannah divides the book, looking at the last decade of Henry's life, followed by the last year, and then the final months. Then the focus is on the making of the will, and in my opinion my favourite chapter, "The Faith of the King". After this Suzannah focuses on the Succession, the transfer of power, the unwritten will, and the legacy of the will. In Appendix 1, the entire will is available in full for readers to digest. The chapter 'succession' delves into why it was so easy to manipulate the act of succession in future. Not to mention the irony in that it was the heirs of Henry's elder sister Margaret, who were practically airbrushed from the succession, ended up on the throne of England.
The book is packed with sketches and paintings of the people discussed, from the Privy Councillors to the King himself, and his children and heirs.
I finished this book a week after beginning it. Usually I'm a very slow reader but I found it incredibly hard to put this down, it was so interesting. There is an old saying, "never judge a book by its cover", but in this case if you do you will be right. The book is every bit as good as the beautiful cover on the front.
Henry's last will written in the last month of his life, is a topic that has been debated many times over the last four hundred years, historians have disagreed over its meaning, and whether or not it was entirely his or if it was the work of ambitious councillors. In this excellent work, Suzannah dispels that myth, believing it to be entirely Henry's own wish.
Suzannah has delved into existing primary sources, and letters written by Privy Councillors to put her case forward, it is an excellent piece of research. I especially like how Suzannah divides the book, looking at the last decade of Henry's life, followed by the last year, and then the final months. Then the focus is on the making of the will, and in my opinion my favourite chapter, "The Faith of the King". After this Suzannah focuses on the Succession, the transfer of power, the unwritten will, and the legacy of the will. In Appendix 1, the entire will is available in full for readers to digest. The chapter 'succession' delves into why it was so easy to manipulate the act of succession in future. Not to mention the irony in that it was the heirs of Henry's elder sister Margaret, who were practically airbrushed from the succession, ended up on the throne of England.
The book is packed with sketches and paintings of the people discussed, from the Privy Councillors to the King himself, and his children and heirs.
I finished this book a week after beginning it. Usually I'm a very slow reader but I found it incredibly hard to put this down, it was so interesting. There is an old saying, "never judge a book by its cover", but in this case if you do you will be right. The book is every bit as good as the beautiful cover on the front.
September 3, 2023
"That Henry believed...that his councillors, in whom he placed so much trust, would be faithful to his wishes, is testament to his hubristic arrogance and his incredible capacity for self-delusion, but also to the buoyancy of his spirit and his faith in the genuine devotion of those around him."
Okay, I love a bit of Tudor history, but it was totally how beautiful the binding for this book is that drew me to reading a book about Henry VIII's...will.
It was actually incredibly, surprisingly interesting though! I sat down to give it a quick peruse and found that a few hours had passed, so drawn into Lipscomb's writing and the research that went into it. Her presenting of the facts that are available was incredibly balanced, navigating the reader through the important contextual factors of Henry's religious beliefs and just where power lay. Succession had been Henry's driving force through much of his tyrannical reign and both the pressing nature of that concern of the absoluteness in the perception of his power were evident. What he didn't quite factor in was that, with the king dead, the overriding desires of the power players of the Tudor world would take precedence over his final wishes.
A small, admittedly petty, highlight was Lipscomb's acadamic, absolute putdown of David Starkey's theories concerning Henry's will, delivered with upmost diplomacy and politeness. Queen.
Okay, I love a bit of Tudor history, but it was totally how beautiful the binding for this book is that drew me to reading a book about Henry VIII's...will.
It was actually incredibly, surprisingly interesting though! I sat down to give it a quick peruse and found that a few hours had passed, so drawn into Lipscomb's writing and the research that went into it. Her presenting of the facts that are available was incredibly balanced, navigating the reader through the important contextual factors of Henry's religious beliefs and just where power lay. Succession had been Henry's driving force through much of his tyrannical reign and both the pressing nature of that concern of the absoluteness in the perception of his power were evident. What he didn't quite factor in was that, with the king dead, the overriding desires of the power players of the Tudor world would take precedence over his final wishes.
A small, admittedly petty, highlight was Lipscomb's acadamic, absolute putdown of David Starkey's theories concerning Henry's will, delivered with upmost diplomacy and politeness. Queen.
September 21, 2020
3.5★ An easy to read, brief exploration into one of the more controversial royal wills in English history. It certainly helped to already have a fair bit of knowledge about the Tudor period including who some of the major political players were.
I found Lipscomb's dismissal of much of the conspiracy theory interpretations of events refreshing - after all Henry Tudor may have been changeable and unpredictable in many of his actions but it is difficult to imagine any one being able to so completely manipulate him to the point that some have argued in the past. However, along with this refreshing take comes some of the most unsubtle bias regarding the character and motivations of historical figures I have read in a long time. Lipscomb certainly does not hold back in her assessment of those in Henry's inner circle. While it also made for easy reading and interpretation, it is hard to take a writer seriously when they dismiss others as being completely biased and then throw their own bias in the readers face like a sledgehammer.
All in all, an enjoyable and informative read drilling down into the specific circumstances and implications of a hotly contested document.
I found Lipscomb's dismissal of much of the conspiracy theory interpretations of events refreshing - after all Henry Tudor may have been changeable and unpredictable in many of his actions but it is difficult to imagine any one being able to so completely manipulate him to the point that some have argued in the past. However, along with this refreshing take comes some of the most unsubtle bias regarding the character and motivations of historical figures I have read in a long time. Lipscomb certainly does not hold back in her assessment of those in Henry's inner circle. While it also made for easy reading and interpretation, it is hard to take a writer seriously when they dismiss others as being completely biased and then throw their own bias in the readers face like a sledgehammer.
All in all, an enjoyable and informative read drilling down into the specific circumstances and implications of a hotly contested document.
January 12, 2016
Stunning book, both to read and simply just to look at (the illustrations and the overall style of the hardback is lovely). Thoroughly enjoyed it, once again Suzannah Lipscomb has demonstrated her in depth knowledge not just of the Tudor period but of its most familiar and yet elusive figure: Henry VIII himself. The dying days of the king, and the last will and testament that was his attempt to rule from the grave, make for an exciting and absorbing read. Couldn't fault it.
April 15, 2024
This is a short book about the last will and testament of Henry VIII. The hardcover edition I have is gorgeous: it's about 8 inches square and full of color illustrations, such as portraits and photographs of documents and artifacts. It's like a tiny coffee table book, with more pictures than prose. It describes the creation of Henry's will, the death of the king, and the ways in which his final wishes were either carried out or ignored. This is followed by the entire text of the will with photographs of some of the original pages. Then there's a list of the witnesses and executors and beneficiaries, and finally the highlights of the inventory of all the king's possessions at the time of his death.
There has been some speculation that Henry's will was altered after his death, and/or that Henry was manipulated into laying the ground for the religious reform which took place during the reign of his son. The author argues against these ideas, convinced that Henry was of sound and determined mind and wrote exactly the will he wanted, with no eye towards assisting in additional reforms.
During the split from Rome Henry had acquired the right to name his successor, and his will lays out the line of succession in detail. After his son Edward he optimistically names any future children which Katherine Parr or any subsequent wife (!) might bear him. Next he names his daughters Mary and Elizabeth, without legitimizing either one of them. He then, without comment, skips the descendants of his oldest sister Margaret (Mary Queen of Scots) in favor of the descendants of his younger sister Mary (Lady Jane Grey). While some of the terms of his will were almost immediately ignored - such as the form of the council to rule during Edward's minority - the line of succession he specified was pretty much carried out.
There has been some speculation that Henry's will was altered after his death, and/or that Henry was manipulated into laying the ground for the religious reform which took place during the reign of his son. The author argues against these ideas, convinced that Henry was of sound and determined mind and wrote exactly the will he wanted, with no eye towards assisting in additional reforms.
During the split from Rome Henry had acquired the right to name his successor, and his will lays out the line of succession in detail. After his son Edward he optimistically names any future children which Katherine Parr or any subsequent wife (!) might bear him. Next he names his daughters Mary and Elizabeth, without legitimizing either one of them. He then, without comment, skips the descendants of his oldest sister Margaret (Mary Queen of Scots) in favor of the descendants of his younger sister Mary (Lady Jane Grey). While some of the terms of his will were almost immediately ignored - such as the form of the council to rule during Edward's minority - the line of succession he specified was pretty much carried out.
October 28, 2020
What is essentially an academic paper is a surprisingly good read for us Joe Publics' who have an interest in English history. Susannah Lipscomb sweeps back her long blonde, crimped hair and rolls up her sleeves to take on other po-faced and dusty historians who have dared to propose that Henry VIII's will was altered by certain ambitious nobles after his death to their advantage. Lipscomb bats this away and declares her belief that there was no courtly conspiracy and it was precisely as he wanted it to be. His son did succeed him, but the young king's uncle, Thomas Seymour, did exceed his position as head of the council set out in Henry's will to rule the kingdom until Edward came of age, and declared himself Lord Protector and effectively ruled. But this was short lived, and the other councillors found a way to remove him and return to the letter of the will. Henry laid out a succession plan that followed in all regards except the brief Lady Jane Grey aberration. Lipscomb is brief in her sweep of Tudor politics, but it is a fascinating story, and still one of the most popular periods in English history - precisely because of the intrigue, political back-stabbing, and the gory executions. Henry's will, reproduced in full in the appendix, is the final insight into the tyrant king's mind, and it sets out a succession plan that went all the way to the Stuart inheritance. Recommended reading for all lovers of the Tudor period.
November 15, 2020
It's been a long time since a book of history caught my attention and held it. Less than 24 hours after this book arrived from the UK, I had finished it, appendixes and all. :-) I discovered Dr. Lipscomb through the Hidden Killers of the Victorian Home television series, when my girlfriend bought a Victorian home. We thoroughly enjoyed her and I found that she had written several books and this paperback edition was released and I procured a personalized copy.
I will admit that most of my British history reading occurs when it is intertwined with U.S. history and therefore I am not well versed at all in that part of history. But Dr. Lipscomb wrote in such an easy to follow way and I became caught up in the story and finished it in a day. Now I am interested to learn more about Henry VIII prior to his will writing days.
Also, it is not a common occurrence (at least in my experience) to see such a lavishly illustrated paperback book. Beautiful images.
You will not be disappointed with this book, other than wishing it was longer than 200 pages!
I will admit that most of my British history reading occurs when it is intertwined with U.S. history and therefore I am not well versed at all in that part of history. But Dr. Lipscomb wrote in such an easy to follow way and I became caught up in the story and finished it in a day. Now I am interested to learn more about Henry VIII prior to his will writing days.
Also, it is not a common occurrence (at least in my experience) to see such a lavishly illustrated paperback book. Beautiful images.
You will not be disappointed with this book, other than wishing it was longer than 200 pages!
May 31, 2020
Why does Henry III not surprise me? Yet I find him interesting! Henry VIII's last will & testament was read just hours before his passing. It was stamped and sealed The will confirmed the line of succession as Edward, Mary and Elizabeth and following them were the Grey and Suffolk families.
Henry's will is one of the most contested and intriguing documents in British history.
This unusual final will lends new insights into Henry's state of mind and religious beliefs during the last months of his life. The story shows how Henry really couldn't control his kingdom with all the intrigue and manipulations.
This is a well written book that evokes the glittering world of the Tudor king in all its glory, pomp and paranoia.
Those of you who find this era in history interesting, will enjoy reading this fascinating story, as I did!
Henry's will is one of the most contested and intriguing documents in British history.
This unusual final will lends new insights into Henry's state of mind and religious beliefs during the last months of his life. The story shows how Henry really couldn't control his kingdom with all the intrigue and manipulations.
This is a well written book that evokes the glittering world of the Tudor king in all its glory, pomp and paranoia.
Those of you who find this era in history interesting, will enjoy reading this fascinating story, as I did!
December 23, 2017
This book examines the last will and testament of King Henry VIII, which he had updated just hours before he died. In the revision, the King determines the line of his succession, an obsession that was his throughout his life. The book also contains a vast array of drawings, photos and other illustrations. The author, Suzannah Lipscomb, also gives her interpretation of the meaning behind some of the most contested text in the will. In fact, scholars still disagree on the validity and the intent of this document. A well researched and informational book, this work will appeal to anyone who is interested in the turbulent Tudor era, and British history in general.
January 15, 2021
A look at the jockeying for power and the religious direction of the country that defined the final few years of Henry VIII’s reign. The lethal combination of the two (the two religious sides often read as political parties) gives context to the violence of that era; it’s the warring factions of Reformers and Catholics that led to so many executions during the 1540s, rather than H8 himself. If anyone watches the show "The Tudors," this book covers the second half of season four and provides clarity for what is actually going on.
January 2, 2018
I loved this book! I found it to paint a clear picture of what the last days of Henry VIII were like and his personality. The book is fascinating and informative! I would definitely use in my tutoring of middle school to high school age children in reading and world history. I found the actual will in the back to be a tedious and annoying read. That is mostly because of the inconstancy in the misspelling of common words.
July 8, 2020
I read this a while back and finally got around to adding a review.
This book was amazing and kept me hooked until the very end. This is written more of as a timeline and a biography rather than a fictional novel. I really enjoyed this book because you got more of an idea how those last few days with Henry really were. We may never know the exact events that unfolded but this helps unravel some of those mysteries.
This book was amazing and kept me hooked until the very end. This is written more of as a timeline and a biography rather than a fictional novel. I really enjoyed this book because you got more of an idea how those last few days with Henry really were. We may never know the exact events that unfolded but this helps unravel some of those mysteries.
March 9, 2024
I have only two comments:
Henry VIII left behind, amongst all the treasures, a doll dressed in cloth-of-silver over a green kirtle. Who did this doll belong to? Mary? Elizabeth? His mother? His sisters? We are not told.
The other is, there is an odd painting of Sir Anthony Browne (died 1548) Master of the King's Horse. He is wearing a fine chain of office, but he has no beard, and his shirtless collarbones are bare beneath his cloak. The only similar picture that comes to mind is that of Henry Fitzroy, Henry's illegitimate son, painted in his shirtsleeves and a cap, looking very much the dying invalid.
Henry's will is mostly concerned with the succession, and even when dying, he still hoped that Katherine Parr would bear a son, or even that he might outlive her and marry again! As it was, the crown went to the descendent of the sister he slighted, Margaret Douglas.
Henry VIII left behind, amongst all the treasures, a doll dressed in cloth-of-silver over a green kirtle. Who did this doll belong to? Mary? Elizabeth? His mother? His sisters? We are not told.
The other is, there is an odd painting of Sir Anthony Browne (died 1548) Master of the King's Horse. He is wearing a fine chain of office, but he has no beard, and his shirtless collarbones are bare beneath his cloak. The only similar picture that comes to mind is that of Henry Fitzroy, Henry's illegitimate son, painted in his shirtsleeves and a cap, looking very much the dying invalid.
Henry's will is mostly concerned with the succession, and even when dying, he still hoped that Katherine Parr would bear a son, or even that he might outlive her and marry again! As it was, the crown went to the descendent of the sister he slighted, Margaret Douglas.
November 1, 2018
If you're not familiar with Tudor history, this isn't exactly the best starting point...but if you are, then this is a concise, razor-sharp focused analysis of a single time, and a single document. It manages to examine the consequences and ponder the numerous legacies surrounding Henry VIII's last will and testament, and doesn't waste a single page or a single word in the process.
December 31, 2020
An in depth look at the will of Henry VIII.
Susannah provides background information and draws together commentary from many different sources to bring an insight into the circumstances surrounding the making of the will and it's subsequent disposal and challenges it raised.
For any parties interested in this period of history this is a must read.
Susannah provides background information and draws together commentary from many different sources to bring an insight into the circumstances surrounding the making of the will and it's subsequent disposal and challenges it raised.
For any parties interested in this period of history this is a must read.
January 8, 2023
This book is very well written, in a clear and accessible style. It is also very informative and, I believe, of interest not only to scholars and academic, but also to everyone who wants to know more about the Tudor era. I thoroughly enjoyed it and now plan on reading more books by the same author. Prof. Lipscombe knows how to write and to keep her readers engaged.
June 2, 2024
I liked how this book focused on the very end of Henry VIII's life and how his will was made a carried out. With such a narrow focus, the author was able to go into lots of detail. I also liked how the final will was included at the end of the book, along with some items inventoried after Henry's death.
May 17, 2017
Short and sweet. Takes the opinion that Henry's will was in fact his, and was not changed by those who proceeded to go against it after his death. Mostly convincing, but there wasn't enough there to make a solid case.
June 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this look at Henry VIII's will. He tried so hard to control everything even after he was gone. This book gives you explanations of the will and the actual text, gorgeous illustrations, and what actually was carried out after the King died. Very interesting.
July 8, 2025
Suzannah Lipscomb is such a good, logical writer. Points were so well-constructed, brilliant backed by historical evidence and sources. The transition and commentary were poignant which brought me back to the documentaries she made about the Tudors when I was growing up.
November 29, 2017
A solid 3.5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews