You Got What I Need

You got what I need

Let’s take a few steps back in time. Make that, a few hundred years back in time. I’m talking about the years of 1523, when the English empire was at its peak in evolution. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory takes place in this beautiful time period. Here, the ladies in waiting and knights of the kingdom do everything they can to please the most famous King Henry the eighth and his Queen Katharine. Until one day, a very prestigious family, the Boleyns, want that pleasure for themselves. A quest for the throne is made and the journey will not end until the crown is in their hands.

I am hands down fascinated by this book. It truly captures the essence of the British monarchy that ruled so controversially. Obviously, I wasn’t around during that time period but this book makes me feel as if I am walking next to Lady Anne on the cobblestone streets of Greenwich. I have been to England and I have been to Greenwich and I can confirm to you all that the history of that island is still living. The people are more than proud to be British. Their history has shaped who they are today. They not only walk with pride but with wisdom. This book depicts the beginnings of how culture and tradition shapes land and people.

Along with reading the book, I am also watching the show The Tudors on Hulu. They both cover the controversy of Lady Anne in pursuit of Queen Katharine’s crown. They are both masterfully created and pure art for the eyes. I picked up a major theme that I am having a hard time deciding where I stand. It is the idea of the importance of family name versus self-dignity. It is true that back than if anyone wanted a successful life, the last name of the family was the only rise to fortune. However, if the family is making one do things out of the comfort level (such as both the Boleyn sisters) why struggle through a life of internal misery? On one hand the Boleyn family is extremely well off because of this journey they have to the thrown. King Henry, being the man he is, is easily hypnotized by the Boleyn touch. However, reading about the extreme pressure these girls go under makes me cringe. It is basically being on stage for 12 hours a day. God forbid you show any sign of displeasure. I believe I am more for the “keep your self dignity”. As long as one is happy and healthy I view that as a successful life.

Also, this book broadened my intelligence level greatly. I feel like these kinds of books should be assigned in European history classes. Such history, in my opinion, is vital to learn. For not only is it beautiful but I have gained many life lessons and morals in just one sitting. I know America is all for change and this is a completely different generation, but sometimes I wonder if we are doing the right thing as a country. This book gave me a whole knew perspective on life and it really brought up some old but wise beliefs.

Attached is an image of the Boleyn sisters and a posed picture from the series The Tudors. Notice how the young girl is trying to gain the attention of the king and pushing the woman out of the way. This is truly a life of forbidden passion, betrayal and devotion. What do you all think? Do you think you could handle life back in 1523?