History Extra podcast Tudor ladies-in-waiting: the women who served Henry VIII's queens
May 12, 2024
Dr. Nicola Clark, author of The Waiting Game, discusses the challenges faced by Tudor ladies-in-waiting serving Henry VIII's queens. Topics include loyalty, power dynamics, secret communication methods, and the evolving roles of these women across different reigns.
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The Power of Proximity
- Being a lady-in-waiting was a coveted position, despite the demanding workload.
- Families wanted their daughters near the monarch for information, access, and influence.
Maria de Salinas's Loyalty
- Maria de Salinas, a lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, initially wanted to return to Spain.
- She later became a loyal servant, even defying orders to be with Catherine during her final moments.
Royal Veto Power
- Henry VIII's wives had some say in choosing ladies-in-waiting but he held ultimate control.
- He prioritized older, discreet women, especially around Jane Seymour.