Development of Research

Throughout the previous week, my research into the relationships of the Tudor siblings has been slower than I would have liked. Due to lack of practical (or in some cases, possible) alternatives, I have been mostly focused on reading books and websites upon the topic for information. Never the less I have still managed to make several developments into nature of Mary, Elizabeth and Edward’s relationships.

Mary and Edward’s relationship had a positive start, as Mary was named Edward’s maiden aunt when he was still a boy. As a child it is reported he would often follow her around, asking her questions and having long discussions. The subject of religion did not come up between the two of them. Upon Mary falling ill, Edward sent her multiple letters and assured her he would keep secret anything she wished to confide. At eight years of age Edward was already giving his older sister advice such as worrying for her love of dances; in a letter he sent to her included the line: “Foreign dances and merriments do not become a most Christian princess!”

Mary and Elizabeth’s relationship also it appears started off quite lovingly. Despite being ordered into Elizabeth’s household at Hatfield, the two grew close quite quickly. In 1536, just a few months after Anne Boleyn’s execution Mary wrote to her father on the subject of her sister’s health:

“My Sister Elizabeth is in good health and such a child toward as I doubt not but your Highness shall have cause to rejoice of in time coming.”

In 1537 following the birth of her brother, it is recorded that she left Edward’s christening, holding Elizabeth’s hand. Mary also proceeded to supervise over her sister’s education, taught her games and showered her with small gifts and pocket money.

All sources suggest that initially all the Tudor siblings were close to one another and their relationship was positive, especially considering their circumstances. However, how did it progress as they grew older, and the politics and power they each shared by being Tudors from birth, became the forefront of their lives?