Catherine of Aragon; the King wants a divorce

The speaker, a Queen, discusses her royal lineage and the support she receives from her mother, the Queen of Spain. Despite this, her husband, the King, is dissatisfied with her for not providing a male heir. He fears that their daughter might marry a foreign king, risking the Tudor legacy. The speaker reflects on her personal struggles, including the loss of children and the King's belief that their misfortunes are divine punishment.

Who does the speaker believe supports her as Queen?

• The French nobility

• The people of England

• The King of England

• The people of Spain

What is the main reason the King is dissatisfied with the speaker?

• She spends too much time in Spain.

• She has not given him a son and heir.

• She is not popular with the English people.

• She refuses to attend court functions.

What is the King's concern if their daughter Mary marries a foreign king?

• The foreign king might invade England.

• The Tudor name might disappear from history.

• Mary might refuse to marry.

• The foreign king might demand a large dowry.

What rumor has the speaker heard about the King's feelings towards her?

• He has grown tired of her and thinks she is old.

• He is planning to send her back to Spain.

• He is planning a grand celebration for her.

• He wants to make her regent.

What does the speaker suggest is the reason for only one of her children surviving?

• A family curse

• The harsh English climate

• God's punishment for marrying her

• Poor medical care