The English Reformation
At the beginning of the 16th century, the Roman Catholic Church controlled a great deal of religious, political and social power in Europe. During this time, there were several individuals within the Church who wished to return to a more pure and simple Christian lifestyle but would have to work against the Church to do so. England was somewhat distant and isolated from the rest of Europe and while Protestantism tore apart European society, it took a far different form in England, retaining much of the doctrine and the practices of Catholicism. In addition, while the Reformation taking place in Europe was brought about by religious differences and ideals, its basis in England was one of personal and political change. England also experienced the greatest wavering between the two religions as the monarchs of England passed from one religion to the next.King Henry VIII of England, once proclaimed "Defender of the Faith" by the Pope for writing a Defense of the Seven Sacraments in repudiation of the teachings of Martin Luther, instigated the English Reformation. The reason for the change of religion in England was for the simple fact of a lack of a male heir to the throne. Henry felt that an heir was essential, especially when one
Anne Boleyn, as well, only gave birth to a daughter, Elizabeth. Differing ideals and attitudes along with political power and ambitions combined to change the course of history. It was because of these acts that the Queen became known as "Bloody Mary". King Edward VI died on 6 July 1553 The Lady Jane Grey was most likely a pawn of her parents and her husband, Guilford Dudley, in attempts to sustain a Protestant friendly Monarchy. Mary introduced legislations to Parliament that included proclaiming the marriage of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon valid and legal and an act to repeal all of the religious laws passed in the reign of Edward VI. She was also aware that many of her subjects remained obstinately attached to the ways of Catholicism. Contrary to deterring the Protestants, the executions merely served to increase the hatred of the Queen. This was to be the basis of the Anglican Church. She was proclaimed Queen four days after Edward's death. Upon 10-year old Edward's succession to the throne on 28 January 1547, Protestantism, modeled on that of the Swiss and German Reformed churches and driven on by a powerful alliance of Archbishop Cranmer and the Duke of Somerset, was put forth as the official church policy of England. Had she been male, it is likely that the whole of English history would have been exceptionally different. Mary was a devoted catholic and continued to practice her faith even after parliament passed the Act of Uniformity which abolished Mass among other things. She was accused of adultery, incest and plotting to kill the King. She was just to be called The Lady Mary. Others looked to the descendants of Henry VIII's sister Mary.
Common topics in this essay:
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28 january 1547,
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