The Other Boleyn Girl

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, graphic violence, and sexual content. 

It is the spring of 1521. Mary expects a last-minute pardon for the Duke of Buckinghamshire. He has been a companion to the king but is now accused of treason. The duke is executed, and Mary’s mother tells her, “There is no room for mistakes at court” (11).

In the spring of 1522, Mary’s older sister, friend, and rival, Anne, returns from the court in France. The sisters embrace, and Mary speaks of her marriage to William Carey, one of the king’s men. Anne compares her dark looks and French style with Mary’s blonde, sweet, English manner. Mary admires Queen Katherine and thinks the royals have a sweet relationship. However, Anne points out that while the king has a son born out of wedlock by Bessie Blount, his only legitimate child is Princess Mary. Anne says the aging queen is not likely to bear more children.

At a masque, Mary dances with the king in disguise and gains his interest. The family holds a conference, and Mary’s Uncle Howard decides they should encourage her to become the king’s mistress. If she has a son by the king, the family might gain power and prestige.