Queen Henrietta Maria, the queen consort of King Charles I, was not only born into royalty but also withstood insurmountable events during her lifetimQueen Henrietta Maria, the queen consort of King Charles I, was not only born into royalty but also withstood insurmountable events during her lifetime. Yet, like most powerful women, Henrietta Maria is often ridiculed as a “Popish Brat” or a trivial and troublesome wife; due to the fact that she was the Catholic wife of Charles during a civil war (and subsequent royal regicide) in a mostly Protestant England. On the contrary, Henrietta Maria was a fearless, calculated, intelligent, ambitious, hardworking warrior with a loving and feminine edge and most certainly doesn’t deserve the poor reputation that history (written mostly by men) have ascribed. Historian Rosalind K. Marshall opens this marvelous queen’s life in, “Henrietta Mara: The Intrepid Queen”.
“Henrietta Maria” is a glossy-paged, short (so far as typical history books go), compact, biographical essay showcasing the life of Henrietta Maria on a mostly chronological timeline alighting with a look at her family background and childhood. Marshall doesn’t fail at instantly grabbing reader attention with intricate, colorful and vivid writing that creates moving visuals as one reads. The text soars and history comes alive with ease. Although Marshall occasionally slips into an informal tone that is better suited for young adults; a concrete level of scholarly academia is achieved making “Henrietta Maria” ideal for both novice and expert history readers.
Marshall is a master at tempo and pace resulting in an accessible read. This doesn’t mean that “Henrietta Maria” is translucent on the history surrounding Henrietta Maria and her time in England’s as King Charles I’s queen. Quite the opposite, as Marshall achieves in a small space what most writers take several hundred more pages to produce; by genuinely educating readers on Henrietta Maria revealing and unsheathing new facts traditionally unfamiliar even to readers well-versed on the subject. This is quite admirable when considering that “Henrietta Maria” was published in 1992 without the ease of research logistics of today. Rosalind attributes the perfect ratio of historical detail to the pages but knowing when to move onto the next subject.
The pages of “Henrietta Maria” are filled with credible research and primary quote source material allowing for Marshall to remain unbiased and propose an objective essay of Henrietta Maria. “Henrietta Maria” is not an outright rehabilitation of character but it accomplishes this by letting Henrietta Maria speak for herself, based on fact, and allowing readers to decide on their interpretations. Marshall’s writing is almost effortless at perfection.
There are occasional slips in the chronological retelling of events but this isn’t due to writer or editor error; but merely to provide layered context or revisit an idea that impacts the topic on hand. This doesn’t disrupt reader attention and is easy to traverse and absorb.
Naturally, “Henrietta Maria” is most riveting when exploring her machinations during the onset and duration of England’s civil war and exile fighting for her husband to retain his throne. It is impossible to hate Henrietta Maria at this juncture or not to be intimidated by her plight and ‘fight’. Henrietta’s strength of character shines by Marshall’s pen and “Henrietta Maria” is glorious and riveting.
The conclusion of “Henrietta Maria” is succinct enough but a deeper insight into her legacy and descendants would have been welcomed. Regardless, “Henrietta is well-rounded and doesn’t fade out with any confusion.
“Henrietta Maria” is filled with what feels like hundreds of images/illustrations/documents that swing the text into an almost coffee table book varietal. This adds to the beauty of the material and is flawless in its ability to add depth. Rosalind doesn’t include annotated notes but does offer some source material for additional reading.
“Henrietta Maria” is quick read and shorter on the pages and yet, that is what adds to the stunning complexity and punch that is given in a small space. “Henrietta Maria” is both educational and entertaining recommended for both novice and expert level readers of Stuart England. ...more
It often seems all of Tudor history has been ‘discovered’ and the monarchs, battles, treaties, beheadings, feasts, figures, cultures, laws, etc; have It often seems all of Tudor history has been ‘discovered’ and the monarchs, battles, treaties, beheadings, feasts, figures, cultures, laws, etc; have been replayed over and over again. There isn’t much left to unearth and the only ‘new’ conversations occur when historians devise fresh perspectives in presenting the information. Behold, as Tudor history is turned upside down with an entirely new ‘story’. Vanessa Wilkie, the Senior Curator of Medieval Manuscripts at the Huntington Library, Museums and Gardens in Pasadena (Los Angeles), California makes her history debut with, “A Woman of Influence: The Spectacular Rise of Alice Spencer in Tudor England”.
Alice Spencer (yes, as in Diana Spencer, the former Princess of Whales – Diana was a descendant) was a truly remarkable and formidable creature who lived a rags-to-riches life as a daughter of a sheep farmer rising to be the matriarch of a noble family. Alice married twice, each time increasing her status and landed wealth (compare her to Bess of Hardwick) while promoting that of her blood and marital relations. Alice overcame the sudden death (rumored poisoning) of her first husband, Ferdinando, the Earl of Derby plus the religious plot to destroy him, a battle for Ferdinando’s inheritance, an unhappy second marriage, dramatic ups and down of her familiar relations and her daughter and granddaughter’s sensational sexual assault trial finding Alice’s son-in-law guilty of rape. It is a severe disservice against all Tudor history lovers that Alice’s life has not been previously highlighted which is why Wilkie did just that.
*Quick tangent: The Huntington Library is the largest research library in the United States and is the primary resource center for most English History texts welcoming historians onto its compound of library, botanical gardens and museums, daily. It houses artifacts and manuscripts in the fields of science, medicine and English history; such as letters written by King Charles I and II, Mary, Queen of Scots, an original Tyndale Bible and the “Ellesmere Canterbury Tales” which is an original in-tact and glorious manuscript of “The Canterbury Tales” owned by Alice Spencer, herself. The Huntington houses several artifacts from the life of Alice Spencer and Vanessa Wilkie is the go-to expert concerning the material making “A Woman of Influence” top-tier credible. The Huntington is my FAVORITE place in Los Angeles and I am honored to live near it. I even celebrated a birthday, there! However, I digress.*
The challenge facing writing a biography/portrait of a lesser-known historical figure is the tendency to offer fluff material and over-speculation due to the lack of resources surrounding the individual (especially women). This results in a piece that discusses the events circumferential to the figure subject without truly bringing him/her to life. That is NOT the case with “A Woman of Influence”. Well, not entirely. “A Woman of Influence” initially struggles slightly with his impairment as Wilkie explores Alice’s childhood with many “could have” and “would have statements”. However, if readers overcome this weakness; they will be rewarded threefold.
Quite quickly, as Alice marries the Earl of Derby, “A Woman of Influence” embarks on a magnetically entertaining, riveting, highly theatrical and dramatic journey gliding readers through a fast-paced narrative supported by Wilkie’s extensive research adding the academic touch. Although most of us have never heard of Alice; the amount of extant material is baffling and Wilkie seamlessly pieces her life together. It would be a spoiler to discuss the content in specifics (who would have thought that a history text could have a spoiler alert?!); but everything that played out in Alice’s life is jaw-dropping. Readers truly come away with a sense of her psyche and the material is memorable and ‘sticky’ and thus, educational.
“A Woman of Influence” is a fast read but not because it is thin and on the contrary is very dense in scope. Simply, Wilkie is a master at presenting the content in a readable and page-turning way that is easy to digest and addicting. Wilkie’s tone is academic but simultaneously visual in a way that few writers can successfully navigate. Wilkie occasionally peppers “A Woman of Influence” with psychological interpretations of events but this isn’t in a condescending way nor with any biases; but rather based on research and make absolute sense. These meanderings add value to “A Woman of Influence” and to Alice, herself.
On a related note, Wilkie’s language and writing style is absolutely delicious (terminology, sentence structure, formatting). “A Woman of Influence” an infinite joy to read.
Wilkie does occasionally fall victim to repetition of facts (did she think we didn’t grasp it the first time? We did) and to chronological time line back-and-forth jumps. “A Woman of Influence” doesn’t lose it champion status and these are few and far between.
Interestingly, Alice Spencer (and her extended family) had close ties/friendships/patronage with some of the Tudor era’s biggest names i.e. Queen Elizabeth I, Robert Dudley and the Cecils (William and Robert) to name a few. This makes it even more flabbergasting that no other texts have previously mentioned Alice. It is due time that she received her bright spotlight.
“A Woman of Influence” concludes in a memorable way that summarizes Alice’s life and impact while an Epilogue briefly discusses her family after her departure from Earth. All reader questions are answered and there is certainly an enticement to explore and research further. Wilkie fortifies “A Woman of Influence” with a section of photo plates, Notes (not annotated) and Bibliography.
“A Woman of Influence” is a riveting and significant text in both Tudor and Women’s’ history and is the definition of “must-read” for all English history lovers. Wilkie’s debut is beyond terrific and we can only hope for more pieces from her in the future (or perhaps I’ll run into her at The Huntingon!)....more
There are far too many examples of women being either pegged as a villain or being omitted from history, entirely (history WAS written by men, as theyThere are far too many examples of women being either pegged as a villain or being omitted from history, entirely (history WAS written by men, as they say!). These ‘men’ (better described as ‘boys’) simply can’t/couldn’t handle an independent, alpha, decisive, complex, literate, warrior, boss babe and had to instead belittle and demean them with propaganda. This is endlessly true in western European history and especially in England. Henrietta Maria, daughter of Italy’s Marie de Medici and King Henry IV of France and Queen consort of England’s King Charles I; was just one of these women. Portrayed as a ‘Popish Brat’ who tried to convert Charles I to Catholicism and thus helped spark the Civil War and the eventual regicide of Charles (so far from the reality of the events); Henrietta Maria is painted with a dark brush. Leanda De Lisle attempts to shed some light on the truth of Henrietta Maria’s personality in, “Henrietta Maria”.
Leanda De Lisle is distinctive for her research and ambitious texts concerning niche pockets of English history or at least fresh perspectives on popular topics. “Henrietta Maria” is no exception and is not a run-of-the-mill biography; instead focusing more Henrietta’s role and impact at the side of King Charles I in hopes of this revealing her true nature and rehabilitating her somewhat poor image. In this way, history tells itself and allows Henrietta to step forward naturally and in an organic way. Unfortunately, the formatting also results in a piece that is absent of the full attention that De Lisle and the title promises with the reader learning more about the time period (Stuart England) than of Henrietta, herself. There are many unanswered questions and “Henrietta Maria” scarcely reveals the ‘real’ Henrietta.
Those readers gravitating towards a floral, visual and illustrative landscape in their history texts will find “Henrietta Maria” satisfying with De Lisle following her usual format of showing her writing chops alongside the history (she would pen a wonderful historical fiction novel, if she chose). “Henrietta Maria” is suspenseful and has a climatic build-up reminiscent of a cinematic plot. Don’t let this fool you into thinking “Henrietta Maria” is biased or fluffy as it is absolutely nothing of the sort and is heavy on the scholarly and factual fronts. It simply means De Lisle is far from dry and slow-moving.
Oftentimes, “Henrietta Maria” does slip on tangents and overly-focuses on details that feel mostly irrelevant to Henrietta Maria. Again, Henrietta is not revealed nearly as much as one would hope and therefore De Lisle overall fails at her target of changing the narrative that is generally pushed. Readers do not walk away from the text with any more of an understanding of Henrietta’s true position than from having read any other piece. This can be argued is because De Lisle tries so hard to not be opinionated within her writing and wants the events to show the real Henrietta but “Henrietta Maria” isn’t as successful as intended.
The majority of “Henrietta Maria” highlights the religious and civic wars during the reign of King Charles that leads to his eventual beheading attempting to showcase Henrietta’s actions during these events. Although some of the complexity and nuances surrounding her are revealed; “Henrietta Maria” more so describes King Charles I and his tragic reign. That being said, De Lisle offers a mountain of previously shrouded and lesser-discussed topics while debunking notable myths that are new even to those who are experts on the subject. Even if Henrietta isn’t the sole focus of De Lisle’s piece; readers will soak up new discoveries in “Henrietta Maria” making it quite notable.
De Lisle occasionally sprinkles in a borderline snarky or comedic line in “Henrietta Maria” but these are not unprofessional lapses in judgment and rather add some sassy finesse to the piece. Somehow, this tactic works even if it wouldn’t for another writer.
The concluding chapters of “Henrietta Maria” appear rushed and missing the opportunity to solidify an emotive understanding of Henrietta. Even at the finality, she feels overlooked and as a side character. This is slightly redeemed in the afterword in which De Lisle summarizes the events of the period through Henrietta Maria’s eyes and explains how they are thusly NOT as made to appear by other written histories. This section is the only time “Henrietta Maria” lives up to its hypothesis and unveils a side of Henrietta unknown. Too bad this is too little, too late.
“Henrietta Maria” includes two sections of photo plates and annotated notes that are particularly gratifying. For instance, there is a comment in the annotated notes in which De Lisle remarks on a point that personally failed to find and encourages readers to inform her of the answer. This is absolutely incredible and shows De Lisle’s inclination to learning and makes her relatable, accessible and interactive with her audience. This is something that should be adopted more often by writers/historians.
Even though “Henrietta Maria” doesn’t meet its aim to fully rehabilitate Henrietta or show an alternate perspective; it does reveal new information within a gripping, readable and well-written narrative even at points where the content is repetitive and somewhat dull. “Henrietta Maria” is not perfect but is still nevertheless suggested for all readers of Stuart England history texts.
I would give “Henrietta Maria” a solid 3½ stars. In lieu of half- stars, the rating has been rounded up to 4 stars. ...more
How much do you know about Titus Oates and his claim of an anti-popish plot during the reign of King Charles II? Probably not much beyond Oates testifHow much do you know about Titus Oates and his claim of an anti-popish plot during the reign of King Charles II? Probably not much beyond Oates testifying to the monarchy that there was a massive planned Catholic uprising afoot hell-bent on murdering Charles II and that this ‘plot’ was proven to be completely fictional. Don’t feel bad – this is usually the extent of coverage in Stuart England/King Charles II history books. Presented as a flimsy, momentary, unimportant blip; readers and history lovers are led to believe that Oates and his conman scandal had no impact on the history of England. It turns out that this is far from the actual truth. Victor Stater shatters every barrier by bringing forth a comprehensive and conclusive topical-focus text on the subject in, “Hoax: The Popish Plot That Never Was”.
Initially, per the introduction and early pages, “Hoax” suffers from a rocky start with confusing blunders that attempt to set the scene, subject and context by demonstrating the civilian environment in England at the onset of the alleged plot in order to lay the foundation of the religious tension in the air before the monarchy ever became involved. Although it is understandable why Stater engineered this angle to set a narrative tone and to also tip-toe readers into the subject matter – it simply does not succeed and Stater should have instead opted to dive into the historical event. Luckily, this feeble beginning is the only major negative of “Hoax” and we can forgive Stater for his indiscretion.
Proceeding this misstep, “Hoax” introduces Israel Tonge and Titus Oates (the initial players and masterminds behind the fake plot) highlighting their respective biographical backgrounds and how they connected with one another. Even at this early stage, “Hoax” is phenomenal and compelling – and we haven’t even gotten to the meat and potatoes of the text! Stater throws so much information at the readers; that it is insulting that other historians virtually ignore this topic when so much information (and riveting, at that!) is available. Readers will find themselves fully immersed and educated expecting chapters to have flown by and it has only been a few pages! “Hoax” is mind-blowing and amazing; yet, never overwhelming to the reader.
In fact, on the contrary, “Hoax” is accessible and easy-to-understand with a fast-paced narrative tone that is comparable to the best contemporary crime documentary, journalistic exposé and/or salacious podcast you have ever watched/read/seen but with a credible, scholarly, academic base. The extent of the research Stater poured into “Hoax” (and during a pandemic) is fantastical and again: almost angering that it is so rarely discussed, otherwise. Solidifying this even more is Stater’s vivid, illustrative and gorgeous composition of the written language that will leave readers swooning and fellow writers envious.
Stater invites other key figures into the narrative (William Bedloe, Ashley Cooper, Dangerfield, and Chief Justice Scroggs, to name a few) which sets the structure for the entire piece. “Hoax” overflows with names and might possibly win the superlative for most individuals mentioned in a history book. Yet, everything is backed by sourced material and never bogs down the reader. Each figure is memorable, comes to life and is necessary: Stater never fills “Hoax” with fluff and is an absolute master at staying on topic.
The majority of “Hoax” unpacks the supposed Catholic uprising and the Catholic vs. Protestant (and, in turn, Protestant vs. Catholic witch-hunt) strain rippling at the surface that formed these events in the first place. “Hoax” explores the motives pushing Oates and his co-conspirators (money, fame) to claim that the Catholics wanted to scour the country murdering non-Catholics and King Charles II. What followed was essentially a religious civil war that affected the King, parliament and the very way England was governed. Stater follows with exposing all of the court trials, testimonies, (non-existing) proof, (false) witnesses, jury deliberations, etc. No rock is left unturned and every single word and page is some of the most gratifying history that Stuart England lovers will ever feast their eyes on.
In a way that is comparable to fictional works; readers become invested in every figure and the turn of events in “Hoax”. Some figures will be hated with a vengeance (particularly, Oates) while pity will be felt for the innocent Catholic victims put to death. All is of this felt on microscopic and psychological levels. There is so much underlying depth behind “Hoax”; that it makes the book far greater than a mere historical re-telling.
“Hoax” is somewhat one-note in that much of the text discusses court trial after court trial. Traditionally, this would be a monotone bore lacking spice but “Hoax” continues to educate and entertain in a cinematic way. Stater’s “Hoax” is the definition of a ‘page turner’ and is so difficult to put down that reader WILL lose sleep!
Also marvelous in “Hoax” is the reiteration not just of the specific subject; but the exploration of the impact it had on King Charles II, his family, his governmental body, civilians and English history, overall. This perturbed fictional plot was a Catholic bloodbath and (thankfully) was the last major religious upheaval in England. It is insane that one man’s lies could turn life upside-down reminiscent of modern-day cults, serial killers, dictators and conspiracies. “Hoax” truly gives readers much ‘food for thought’.
Stater successfully avoids biases or personal opinions in “Hoax” and remain bi-partisan but without being soft. “Hoax” explores both sides of the issues and how both were impacted.
Unfortunately, the conclusion of “Hoax” is abrupt, rushed and leaves readers with the, “That’s it?!” -response. Did Stater hit his deadline with his editor/publisher? Did he not know how to wrap up the text effectively? We will never know but the fact of the matter is that the masterpiece “Hoax” has a poor finality. Also absent is a look at how Oates was truly exposed, the reactions to this and how King Charles II and this subjects responded when finding out everything was perjury at the martyring of innocent lives. This is lightly built-up and alluded to but then not followed-through. Despite this, “Hoax” isn’t weakened, overall.
“Hoax” is supplemented with a section of black-and-white photo plates, notes (not annotated) and sources for further reading.
Even with the poor introduction and conclusion; “Hoax” is one of the best Stuart England and English history books, ever-written (yes, a lofty but well-deserved title) on a topic that is lesser-discussed. “Hoax” is an absolute pleasurable romp and is recommended for all English history lovers, Stuart England fans and readers of all things King Charles II. Run and don’t walk to grab, “Hoax”. What are you waiting for?!...more
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