This volume provides the essential history of the Tudors up to the death of Elizabeth I, who kept power with a rare skill and subtlety, and whose death led to the union of the crowns of England and Scotland and the end of the Tudor line.
About the series A Royal History of England :
From the beginning of monarchical power in Norman times to the present queen, the British royal family has experienced many scandals, triumphs, and changes in public image, but few of their reigns can be described as uneventful. With contributions by specialist authors and contemporary illustrations of royal heraldry and coats of arms, Antonia Fraser has edited a definitive and entertaining history of one of the most powerful monarchies in the world.
This was the very first book that I read about the Tudors when I was about eleven or so. It was a book that set off my love of history and the Renaissance. It wasn't slowed down since.And I still have the original book as well.
Since I had not read much about the The Tudors and was very curious about this fascinating dynasty, this book definitely provided a great introduction. The book covers Tudors history in a snapshot. With a good family tree in the beginning and description of Tudor Kings and Queens; this books is definitely worth reading; especially if you are a novice to Tudor history. Now, I can't wait to read more about this fantastic dynasty.
This book is good for a brief overview of the Tudor monarchs. Having read tons of books on the Tudors already, this one was superfluous for me. I am planning to read the Fraser books on some of the other families (the Stuarts, the Windsors, etc) that I have less knowledge of and think these will be really good for that.
Love those Tudors. I had child-censored tales of Henry VIII and all his wives from my mother as bedtime stories growing up, and the fascination stuck. So maybe we're a weird family, but the book is just as pretty and fun as the rest in the series.
For those who don't have prior knowledge about this time period, The Tudors is a decent introduction. Sketches of the main characters are quite brief -- unsuitable for those with deeper interest or prior study.
Short, sweet and to the point. If you just want a small overview of the Tudors and don't want to get bogged down in too many details, this thin paperback is right for you.
A good discussion and analysis of the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth covering the period of English history from 1455 through 1603.
This is a book that I put down and then pick up. Interesting history. I did not realize what a terrible person Henry VIII was and the turmoil he put his citizens through.