12. AL - WOLF HALL - PART V - CHAPTER 3 AND PART VI - CHAPTER 1 (525 - 579) (05/09/11 - 05/15/11) ~ No spoilers, please

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Write-up - thanks to Garret

Hello,

During the week of May 9 – May 15 we are reading Part V Chapter 3 A Painter’s Eye. 1534 and Part VI Chapter 1 Supremacy 1534 pp 525-579.

This thread will discuss the following:

Week 12 – May 9 – May 15 -> Part V Chpt 3 Part VI Chpt 1 pp 525-579


Remember, these weekly non spoiler threads are just that - non spoiler. There are many other threads where "spoiler information" can be placed including the glossary and any of the other supplemental threads.

We will open up a thread for each week's reading. Please make sure to post in the particular thread dedicated to those specific chapters and page numbers to avoid spoilers. We will also open up supplemental threads as we have done for other spotlighted reads.

We kicked off this book on February 21. We look forward to your participation. Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other noted on line booksellers do have copies of the book and shipment can be expedited. The book can also be obtained easily at your local library, on iTunes for the ipad, etc. However, be careful, some audible formats are abridged and not unabridged.

There is still time remaining to obtain the book and get started. There is no rush and we are thrilled to have you join us. It is never too late to get started and/or to post.

Welcome,

Garret


This is a link to the complete table of contents and syllabus thread:

http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/4...

TO SEE ALL WEEK'S THREADS SELECT VIEW ALL

This is a kick-off book for the Audiobook folder.

Remember this is a non spoiler thread.

Hilary Mantel

[Garret]

This week we start with a discussion of the portrait of Cromwell by Hans Holbein the Younger.

Cromwell discusses some of Marsiglio's propositions with King Henry having to do with papal authority. Cromwell sees Wolsey's ghost. Cromwell is promoted by Henry. Anne is not happy with the legal document securing the succession of her children. Gardner loses favor with Henry. There is an awkward discussion between them regarding the oath the king wants his subjects to take. Anne insists the king put More's name on the bill against the false prophetess Barton -- Henry puts both Fisher and More's names on the list. Cromwell has a discussion with Fisher and warns him of the danger of his position. Cromwell visits Barton. Cromwell visits Mary and council her on how to get back into the King's favor. Fisher recants and asks for the King's pardon. The King's councillors beg the King to take More's name off the list and he does so. But More's troubles aren't over as he refuses to take the King's oath but won't give a reason. The Pope finally makes his judgement against Henry's wishes. He declares Henry's first marriage sound. Cromwell is unable to change More's mind. The King makes Cromwell his right hand man. The chapter ends with Anne's miscarriage.

A lot happens this week. What do you think about Cromwell's motivations and actions now?

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Thanks Garret.

[Garret]

Thomas Cromwell, Earl of Essex
Portrait by Hans Holbein the Younger

What does Holbein's portrait capture about Thomas Cromwell's character that even Cromwell, himself, recognizes?

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

He looks sinister and possessed by demons and an enigma even to himself. He looks wary of everyone and looks like he maintains his own counsel.

[Garret]

Bentley wrote: "He looks sinister and possessed by demons and an enigma even to himself. He looks wary of everyone and looks like he maintains his own counsel."
OOOh you're good...

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Yes, all I need is a crystal ball.