Bloody Mary: A Graphic Biography of Mary Tudor by Kristina Gehrmann

 

Reviewed by Jeanne

People are still fascinated by the Tudors.  Not only did they reshape parts of Europe, but there were so many complicated and charismatic characters involved, none more so than King Henry VIII, Mary’s father.  The book begins in 1518, when times were happy for two year old Mary.  Her parents, Henry and Catherine of Aragon, were (apparently) happily married, though Henry still wants a son and heir.  A daughter is not going to cut it.  He does have Mary educated as befits a ruler but his attention soon turns to another woman—Anne Boleyn. 

Told from Mary’s point of view, this book covers a lot of British history in a personal way.  It deals with Mary’s relationship with both her parents, and reflects Mary’s deep Catholic faith.  When her father breaks with the Catholic Church and becomes head of the Church of England, she is devastated, both emotionally and spiritually.  Yet she survives, and goes on to become the Queen of England after her brother’s death. The way that she rules is a reflection of that faith, and the belief that it is God’s will that she eradicate heretics. It’s also how she became known as “Bloody Mary.”

I know there are some who are not sold on the graphic novel format for non-fiction but I have to say I have seen some excellent ones. My personal favorite is The Twilight Man: Rod Serling and the History of Television by Koren Shadmi.  (Christy's review of that title can be read here.) This one, while drawn in a somewhat more cartoon style, still does an excellent job of presenting the facts.  She includes scenes which may reflect opposing views of Mary as a way of showing what others thought or passing on bits of gossip, such as when a very young Mary learns that her father is having an affair.  While these instances may not have a specific source to back them up, it would be reasonable to assume that such things occurred.

While I’m not really well versed in Tudor history, the book did back up what I did know.  I have long been interested in King Henry VIII and his six wives, and this book gives the reader a good feel for the “behind the scenes.” I did read the end notes, and while the author doesn’t cite her sources, some of the text reads as if it has been quoted.  The author, who is German, does explain some of her artistic techniques and that she used as well as references and illustrations for clothing, buildings, etc.

I found this to be an informative and attractive way to learn more about Queen Mary and the Tudor family.