Investigating the Effect to Which the Factions Were in Control of Henrican Government Between 1540 and 1547

Investigating the Effect to Which the Factions Were in Control of Henrican Government Between 1540 and 1547

On the surface it appears that Henry was a temperamental declining

monarch by 1540, who was out of touch with the countries politics

surrounding him. It seemed that after Cromwell' s execution there was

competition for power between the leading factional members. Yet in

actual fact Henry was not what he seemed; he was sharp in playing the

'political game' to get what he wanted as much as the factions.

The two main factions were the 'Conservatives' and the 'Progressives'

(or Radicals). The Conservatives were a faction whose main objective

was to encourage the Catholic Counter-Reformation, but also to acquire

personal gain at the same time. They also strongly believed in the

removal of 'low-born servants who surrounded the king and who

prevented the true nobles from occupying their rightful place in the

affairs of the state' (i.e. Thomas Cromwell). Members included the

Duke of Norfolk, the Earl of Surrey and Wriothesley (Lord Chancellor).

The Progressives were the opposing faction who had contrary aims.

These were to promote Protestantism. Members included the Duke of

Hertford, Archbishop Cranmer and Sir Anthony Denny.

In the final years of Henry's life he was in much pain due to swelling

of his legs, he was overweight, he was also suffering from brain

damage and a vitamin deficiency. These all contributed to his temper

and appearance and it is for this reason that he was involved less

with the politics of the country. The factions felt t...

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...phasises that Henry was always in control

overall. He knew exactly whom he trusted and what was believable. The

factions influenced Henry's decisions; but Henry only took serious

action when he truly believed them or wanted to believe them. Other

factor controlling Henry's judgment was his health, which affected his

mood. Overall the power of the factions was limited by Henry's views

on people and the situation. It is also evident that he favoured the

Progressives more than the Conservatives. This is evident from his

actions. Henry was aware of the factional problem therefore knew how

to play one off the other. In many ways the 1540's saw a return to

traditional kingship. Henry was pre-occupied with war, diplomacy and

his status abroad. He may have been a lot more unsuccessful but it was

still Henry who was in control.