Forging a King: The Early Life of Henry VIII

Before the infamous reign of Henry VIII, before the break with Rome and the whirlwind of marriages, there was a young prince groomed for greatness. In this episode of The Lion and the Rose, we delve into the early years of Henry’s life—a period marked by chivalric ideals, humanist learning, and the influence of masterful minds like Thomas More, John Skelton, and Erasmus. Discover how a second-born son transformed into the heir to the Tudor legacy, his childhood shaped by towering ambitions, intellectual rigor, and a court obsessed with the display of power. Join us as we unravel the making of a legend and uncover the forces that set Henry VIII on his path to becoming one of England’s most remarkable—and controversial—monarchs. Listen in and explore the origins of a king whose story would alter the course of history. And remember, keep your sword sharp, and your history sharper!