Lecture Notes: The Portrait and Marriage of Anne of Cleves

Introduction

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• Story about a king choosing to marry a woman based on her portrait.
• Focus on Anne of Cleves, known as the "ugly" wife of King Henry VIII.
• Discusses how Anne's portrait led to a marriage with unexpected outcomes.

Anne of Cleves by Hans Holbein the Younger

• Portrait restored recently, showing vibrant details seen by Henry 500 years ago.
• Description of Anne in painting:
  • Regal background, rich gown with pearls and gemstones.
  • Straight pose, averted gaze, slight smile.
  • Portrait convinced Henry to marry her, but reality didn't match expectations.

Historical Context

• Henry's Marriages:
  • Third wife Jane Seymour died post childbirth.
  • Had six wives over his reign.
  • Pattern of obsession and dissatisfaction with wives.
• Predecessors:
  • Katherine of Aragon, unable to provide male heir.
  • Anne Boleyn, executed after failing to provide son.

Henry's Search for a New Wife

• Wanted a perfect queen: intelligent, cultured, patient, and beautiful.
• Sent ambassadors across Europe; few suitable candidates.
• Christina of Denmark rejected him with a sharp remark.

Anne of Cleves as a Candidate

• Suggested by Cromwell for strategic alliance with Germany.
• Mixed reviews on her beauty; however, Cromwell praised her.
• Holbein sent to paint Anne's portrait.

The Meeting and Marriage

• Anne's arrival in England and first meeting with Henry.
  • Henry's peasant disguise failed to impress Anne.
  • Henry disappointed; found her dull and unattractive.
• Married on January 6, 1540, but relationship strained.

Aftermath and Annulment

• Henry claimed marriage was unconsummated.
• Anne accepted annulment calmly, avoiding Anne Boleyn's fate.
• Awarded with wealth and estates; became one of England's richest women.

Anne's Life Post-Annulment

• Maintained good relations with Henry and his daughters.
• Labeled as the "king's beloved sister."
• Never returned to Cleves, lived in England till her death.
• Remained unmarried, perhaps due to financial insecurity.

Legacy and Reflections

• Anne known as the "lucky" wife due to her favorable outcome.
• Holbein's role and skill in portraiture emphasized.
• Anne's intelligence and diplomacy allowed her survival and prosperity.

Conclusion

• Anne of Cleves viewed as fortunate in avoiding the king’s wrath.
• Despite being labeled "unattractive," she thrived post-marriage.
• Her story highlighted through the lens of Holbein's artistry and historical narrative.