Chapter 6: Burning Convictions Study Questions

1. Great Britain was originally a Roman Catholic nation, but today it is mostly Anglican. What are the differences between these two versions of Christianity?

2. The reading of scripture by laypersons threatened the Catholic Church. How did the translation and publication of the Bible challenge the Catholic Church and the power of the priests?

3. How did the Church react to the challenge of scriptural literacy?

4. Henry VIII is one of the most famous rulers in world history. Discuss some of the king’s characteristics. How did his personality contribute to his fame?

5. Like every monarch, Henry VIII had an elaborate court. Describe what you think his court may have been like.

6. Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was one of the most powerful men in Henry VIII’s court. What were Wolsey’s talents that made him so valuable to the king?

7. Anne Boleyn is one of the most intriguing women in history. Who was this fascinating woman? Why does she continue to intrigue historians centuries after her death?

8. What is “courtly love?”

9. Henry VIII changed the religion of England in order to get a divorce from his wife, Catherine of Aragon. Why did he want a divorce or annulment?

10. Discuss the political implications of Henry VIII divorcing Catherine of Aragon.

11. How did the marital problems of Henry VIII cause the downfall of Thomas Wolsey?

12. The Protestant Reformation is one of the most significant events in English history. How did this event take place? Who were the architects of this historical event?

13. How did Thomas Cromwell get Anne Boleyn out of the way to leave Henry VIII free to marry Jane Seymour?

14. The spread of a readable Bible caused much furor in England. Discuss how this is an example of the saying “the pen is mightier than the sword.”

15. How did Henry VIII’s children reflect the political and religious schisms in 16th century England?