Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I: The Mother and Daughter Who Forever Changed British History

In this rewarding study, historian Borman (The Private Lives of the Tudors) showcases Anne Boleyn’s lasting influence on her daughter Elizabeth I. Though Anne was executed by Henry VIII before Elizabeth turned three years old, Borman contends that mother and daughter shared an unbreakable bond. She highlights the myriad ways Elizabeth sought to reclaim her mother’s reputation, despite her father’s extreme attempts to erase Anne from history. Examples include the incorporation of symbols associated with Anne (honeysuckle, falcons) in portraits and other objects commissioned for Elizabeth, and her elevation of loyal Boleyn relatives, particularly the Carey and Norris families. Borman also notes that Marguerite of Navarre’s “radical religious ideas” influenced Anne and Elizabeth, and that both women used fashion to further their political goals. Anne introduced glamorous French styles into the English court and protectively clothed her toddler in royal purple, while Elizabeth dressed modestly to shield herself from rivals, before revealing her own love of sumptuous clothing once safely enthroned. Even Elizabeth’s famous virginal theme began with Anne, who surrounded herself with tapestries depicting St. Ursula and the 11,000 virgins in the weeks before giving birth to Elizabeth. Beautifully envisioned and full of insight, this is a must-read for Tudor history buffs. (June)