Teaching history to students can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to teaching about monarchies. However, one of the most interesting and influential figures in English history is Henry VIII and his sister Mary Tudor. Both individuals have left an indelible mark on history that has fascinated generations of people. But, when it comes to teaching about these figures, one question that often arises is how to make it engaging and memorable for students.
One way to approach the topic of Henry VIII’s sister, Mary Tudor, is to provide a comprehensive overview of her life and legacy. Mary Tudor was the younger sister of King Henry VIII. She was born in 1496 and grew up in a tumultuous time in England’s history. After Henry VIII’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon, which led to the break with Rome and the formation of the Church of England, Mary found herself the subject of much debate and scrutiny.
Mary Tudor was a devout Catholic and was known to be a very religious person. Despite her deep faith, she was not directly involved in the religious debates taking place in England during her brother’s reign. However, her religious beliefs would later become a central part of her legacy when she became queen.
When Henry VIII died, he was succeeded by his young son Edward VI. However, Edward was too young to rule on his own, and so his uncle, Edward Seymour, was appointed Lord Protector of the realm. During this time, Mary lived with her step-mother, Catherine Parr, and continued to practice her Catholic beliefs. However, when Edward VI died at the age of 15, Mary’s fortunes changed.
Mary Tudor became queen in 1553, and her reign was characterized by her religious beliefs and her desire to return England to the Catholic faith. She married Phillip II of Spain, a devout Catholic, and began to reverse the Protestant policies of her predecessor. Mary also burned hundreds of heretics at the stake, which earned her the nickname “Bloody Mary.”
Teaching students about Mary Tudor can be a complex and sensitive topic. It is important to provide historical context and to consider Mary’s actions in the context of her time and the prevailing beliefs of the period. For example, while Mary’s religious policies are often criticized today, they were considered a reasonable response to the challenges of the time.
To make the topic engaging and memorable, teachers can incorporate a range of teaching strategies and resources. For example, students can read primary sources, such as letters and diaries, to gain insights into Mary’s beliefs and personality. Strategies like role-playing and debate can help students to explore the complexities of Mary’s reign and to develop their own opinions on her actions.
Overall, teaching students about Henry VIII’s sister, Mary Tudor, can be a fascinating and meaningful topic. By providing context, using a range of resources, and employing different teaching strategies, teachers can make the topic engaging and memorable for students. Through studying the life and legacy of Mary Tudor, students can gain an appreciation for the complexities of history and the people who have shaped it.
