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Katherine of Aragon Festival #3 - Debunking The Tyrant - Mary I with Peter Stiffel

Peter Stiffel Sets the Record Straight

As the Katherine of Aragon Festival approaches, historian Peter Stiffel delves into the life of Mary I, challenging the myths that label her as a tyrant and a monster.




The Myth of "Bloody Mary"
  • Debunking the Tyrant Narrative: Peter challenges the image of Mary as a cruel ruler, emphasizing her compassion and commitment to her people.
  • Mary's Achievements: Explore the often-overlooked reforms Mary implemented, from economic recovery to educational advancements.
Mary’s Legacy
  • First Female Monarch: Mary I was England’s first queen regnant, setting the stage for future female rulers like Elizabeth I.
  • Cultural Contributions: Discover how Mary’s reign enriched England’s cultural landscape, supporting artists and influencing its artistic heritage.
The Reality of Her Reign
  • Political Context: Understand the challenges Mary faced, including political intrigue and religious conflicts that shaped her rule.
  • Personal Struggles: Gain insights into Mary’s life, including her fraught relationship with Henry VIII and the influence of her mother, Katherine of Aragon.

Celebrate Mary I’s true legacy and dismantle the myths surrounding her reign at Peter’s talk during the Katherine of Aragon Festival on January 25th at Peterborough Cathedral.

Follow Peter on Twitter/X: @PStiffel



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