Lesser known facts about Anne Boleyn, England’s most controversial queen
Great Britain has a long-standing history of monarchy. Historians estimate that the British empire is almost 400 years old! Through these centuries, several kings and queens reigned over the country and made their own unique contributions to the empire. However, some of these rulers stand out and have intriguing stories about their lives. One such queen was Anne Boleyn. The second wife of King Henry the VIII and the mother of Queen Elizabeth I, her charm caused King Henry to annul his first marriage, and wed Anne. However, merely three years post marriage, she was executed after being accused of high treason in 1536. Known to be snobbish and rude, she definitely failed to fit into the shoes of a queen. Here are some lesser known facts about Anne Boleyn and her life.
Although English, Anne passed off more as a Frenchwoman
Boleyn was born in the early 16th century into a noble family. Her father, Thomas Boleyn was a well-known diplomat. His job took him to several countries, and hence, the family travelled often. She completed her education in Margaret of Austria’s court which is located in (present-day) Belgium. Later on, she moved to Paris, France, to continue her education. She returned back to English soil in the early 1520s as a fluent Francophone who easily passed for a Frenchwoman more than an Englishwoman. Living in Paris had helped her develop distinct Parisian mannerisms, which were surprising to witness for the people in her homeland.
Her performing arts skills were praiseworthy
Although disliked in court due to her unfriendly disposition, everyone agreed that Boleyn was a fantastic dancer. Moreover, she was a skilled lute player as well, which was a popular instrument in the Tudor court, bearing similarities with the guitar. London’s Royal College of Music is home to a songbook containing a historically significant selection of music with this British queen’s inscription on it.
People claimed that she had a “devilish spirit”
Boleyn made more enemies than friends during her time. Her endless list of detractors often claimed that she had a devilish spirit. A few years after she had been executed, there was a claim made that she actually had 11 fingers in total, with 6 on her right hand. This was attributed to devilish energy. However, there has been no proof for this rumour.
Anne Boleyn was known to be incredibly charming
There was never a shortage of suitors for Boleyn as she was considered to be an extremely charming woman. Especially in England, her French elegance and sophistication set her apart from everyone else around her. Although she was unpopular in court, she was highly accomplished, educated and witty, which is why, she was taken seriously. This charm of hers was, in fact, the very reason King Henry VIII was besotted with her and ended up annulling his first marriage.