The Tudors virgin diary – That Thomas More is a saint

(Season 2, Episodes 1-5)

I’m through the first half of the second season of The Tudors, and I can’t help thinking that the writers took some liberties with Thomas More. Can anyone really be that pious? I suppose the answer is yes. I mean, the dude was canonized in 1935. He is, literally, a saint. It’s an interesting question with a historical fiction series like The Tudors. Just how much liberty do the writers take? I’m guessing quite a bit.

For instance, take Anne Boleyn (now Queen Anne). I find it very interesting how the show has portrayed her as a scheming, ambitious woman, but at the same time there has appeared to be genuine affection on her part toward Henry. It certainly makes for good television, but I question the historical accuracy. Let’s be honest, though, I’m not really watching the series as a history lesson. It makes for an interesting question, in any case.

The first half of the season certainly did focus on some true historical events. I really enjoyed watching Henry seize power of the church and all the repercussions that it had. It was nice to see a return to the politics and ruling that was absent during the final half of season one. Sure, there was still a lot of sex in these episodes, but there was a little more going on than just that. Henry really does go through women at an amazing rate, though. I loved Anne trying to control his dalliances by sending her cousin to bed with the King. The best part was that he totally went along with it. Anything to satisfy those desires.

Then, on the other end of the spectrum is Thomas More. He really was portrayed as a righteous and moral person, almost to the point of not being believable. It was a nice juxtaposition through the first half watching his behavior and morals next to Henry’s (or Henry’s lack thereof as the case my be). Sadly, these episodes culminated with More’s death after he refused to recognize the King as the head of the church. I’m certainly going to miss the character and Jeremy Northam’s performance, but I’m eager to see who steps up to replace him. Certainly Peter O’Toole is no slouch. Is the Pope going to take a larger role moving forward?

I’m also eager to see what is going to happen with Katherine of Aragon. She is growing increasingly ill, and it’s clear that she is not long for this world. Will she be reunited with her daughter before she dies? Will she get one last word in with the King? I hope she gets a good send off, as she has been one of the strongest characters in the show.

Then, of course, there is the matter of an heir and whether or not Anne can produce one. I’m eager to see if she lasts the season before the King takes her head.

Clacked by Bob Degon
on Aug 19, 2010 @ 15:00 EST5EDT