Watch Six Wives with Lucy Worsley

Six Wives with Lucy Worsley is a fascinating and informative historical documentary presented by Lucy Worsley, chief curator at the Historic Royal Palaces. The show explores the stories and lives of the six women who were married to King Henry VIII during the Tudor period.

As a historian, Lucy Worsley brings her expertise and knowledge to the show, providing insights into the lives of the key players during this tumultuous period in English history. Her engaging and passionate presentation style provides a fresh perspective on the well-trodden subject of Henry VIII and his wives.

In each episode, Lucy Worsley focuses on one of Henry's wives, beginning with Catherine of Aragon, who was his first wife, and ending with Catherine Parr, his sixth and final wife. Through a mix of dramatized scenes, interviews with historians and experts, and visits to the locations where the events took place, Lucy Worsley brings the stories of these women to life.

Along the way, Lucy Worsley debunks many of the myths surrounding Henry VIII and his wives. She challenges the idea that Henry was a tyrant who simply disposed of his wives when he grew bored of them or when they failed to produce a male heir. Instead, Lucy Worsley shows how each of Henry's wives was a real person with her own strengths and weaknesses, her own beliefs and desires. She emphasizes the role that these women played in the social, political, and religious developments of the Tudor period.

The show also sheds light on the workings of the Tudor court, exploring the power struggles, alliances, and intrigues that took place behind the scenes. Lucy Worsley explains how the fate of Henry's wives was often tied to the politics of the time. For example, Catherine of Aragon's marriage to Henry was crucial for securing an alliance with Spain, while Anne Boleyn's downfall was linked to her perceived role in pushing Henry towards a break with the Catholic Church.

Throughout the series, Lucy Worsley confronts the challenging ethical questions posed by the lives of the six wives. For example, she asks whether Anne Boleyn was really guilty of the crimes for which she was executed, or whether she was simply a victim of Henry's desire for a new wife. She also explores the treatment of the wives by both Henry and society as a whole, highlighting the double standards that existed at the time.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Six Wives with Lucy Worsley is a highly engaging and entertaining show. Lucy Worsley's passion for her subject shines through, and her ability to explain complex historical concepts clearly and concisely makes the show accessible to everyone. The dramatized scenes, which are often quite humorous, add to the overall enjoyment of the show.

Ultimately, Six Wives with Lucy Worsley is a vivid and compelling portrait of six women who played a significant role in shaping the history of England. Through her thoughtful and nuanced approach, Lucy Worsley invites us to see these women not just as symbols or victims, but as complex individuals with their own stories to tell. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for an engaging and informative documentary, Six Wives with Lucy Worsley is definitely worth a watch.