2023/09/13 by Anne Curry · 1 voice
Arts and Humanities · Social Sciences · #Historical Art and Culture Studies #Historical Geopolitical and Social Dynamics #Historical Influence and Diplomacy
paper · pdf · doi:10.1093/hisres/htad018
openalex publication_date 2023/09/13 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
Abstract Arthurian symbolism utilized by King Henry VIII in Habsburg diplomacy was a tribute to his esteemed mythic forefather, King Arthur, who commanded great respect from countless individuals, not least his imperial cousins. This article proposes that the King Arthur pageant at the 1522 London entry of Charles V was part of Henry’s broader use of Arthuriana in Habsburg political theatre, inspired by Maximilian I’s pseudo-ancestry. This article provides a new insight into Henry’s attempts to engage in the power politics of early sixteenth-century Europe and the use of British history in forging connections with his political rival.