Anne Boleyn Harlot or Heroine?

Anne Boleyn – a scheming, ambitious strumpet, or the tragic and innocent victim of court politics and events? Can Anne Boleyn be regarded as one of the most highly-educated and forward-thinking of English queens, with a passion for the new learning and reform of the sixteenth century? Or was she only interested in having a good time and enjoying court life? In this talk, Valerie Shrimplin will examine controversial aspects of Anne’s life, from her early background and romance with King Henry VIII – to her role in the Reformation, and events leading to her trial and (spoiler alert!) execution in 1536.