Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light once again examines the complex historical figure that is Thomas Cromwell (played by Mark Rylance), and imagines what his relationships with other powerful individuals might have looked like. Fans will be aware that Hilary Mantel's acclaimed novels are not entirely factual accounts, veering away from reality at various points to offer a compelling narrative against the backdrop of Tudor England. Nevertheless, there is evidence to support the allegiances and sympathies that Cromwell is depicted as having in the show and its brand new sequel Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light on BBC One and iPlayer.
One such relationship explored in greater detail in season 2 is between Cromwell and Princess Mary Tudor, whose position at the start of this chapter is challenged by her father's divorce from Catherine of Aragon and break away from Rome. But did Cromwell's actions towards Mary Tudor constitute love – or even an intent to marry her? Here's what you should know about the history that inspired Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light.
Was There Romance Between Thomas Cromwell and Mary Tudor?
No, there is no evidence to suggest that Thomas Cromwell loved Mary Tudor in a romantic sense. Likewise, there is no record to imply that he ever promised the dying Catherine of Aragon that he would protect her daughter from harm after she was no longer able to do so. However, these storylines were not conjured out of thin air by Mantel. Rather, the novelist was likely inspired by Cromwell's respect for the queen, having said of her (via historian Maria Micaela Prendergast): "If not for her sex, she would have defied all the heroes of history." That opinion may stem from the fact that Catherine endured marriage to King Henry VIII for an astonishing 25 years, while she also resisted moves to end the marriage (which appalled the Roman Catholic Church). Therefore, it is not outrageous to suggest that Cromwell's efforts to bring Mary back into the line of succession was influenced by some degree of respect for the late queen – or perhaps even guilt that he successfully annulled her marriage.
When it comes to Mary, it is true that Cromwell had an alliance – potentially even a bond – of sorts with the young princess, but it's unlikely that this was ever a romance. As depicted in Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, Cromwell played an instrumental role in getting Mary to agree to King Henry VIII's highly controversial leadership of the Church of England. She had resisted calls to do so for some time, and this had placed her position – or at worst her life – in great danger. It is also known that the pair exchanged numerous letters over the years and claimed, by diplomat Eustace Chapuys, that he wished to give her a present that was ultimately co-opted by the king as he liked it so much (via Renaissance English History Podcast).
Was Cromwell's Downfall Based on Lies?
One of the accusations that led to Cromwell's downfall was that he hoped to marry Princess Mary, but due to the general treachery of King Henry VIII's court, we cannot take this charge as factual. It is more likely that it was fabricated to get him out of the picture after the king no longer favoured him, but a degree of friendliness between Cromwell and Mary would have helped the rumour to take root in the minds of his accusers. The Mirror and the Light explores the dynamic between the two historical figures.
How Cromwell's Actions Impact the Story of Mary Tudor
While the show takes creative liberty with certain aspects of the relationship between Cromwell and Mary Tudor, it is clear that Cromwell's actions had a profound impact on her life and ultimately her position within the Tudor dynasty. Despite not being romantic, Cromwell's alliance with Mary played a key role in ensuring her survival and eventually her eventual claim to the throne. The Mirror and the Light explores the dynamic between the two historical figures.
Overall, while the idea of a romantic relationship between Cromwell and Mary Tudor is captivating, the historical evidence points to a more complex dynamic of respect, alliance, and political maneuvering. Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light does a great job of exploring this dynamic in an engaging and thought-provoking way, offering insights into the complexities of power, ambition, and love in Tudor England.
The Mirror and the Light explores the dynamic between the two historical figures.
