Henry VIII, renowned for his command of power and celebrated for his intellect, presided over the most stylish – and dangerous – court in Renaissance Europe. Scheming cardinals vied for power with newly rich landowners and merchants, brilliant painters and architects introduced a new splendor into art and design and each of Henry's six queens brought her own influence to bear upon the life of the court. This magnificent biography of Henry VIII is set against the cultural, social and political background of his court – the most spectacular court ever seen in England – and the splendour of his many sumptuous palaces. It is an entertaining narrative packed with colourful description and a wealth of anecdotal evidence but also a comprehensive analytical study of the development of both monarch and court during a crucial period in English history. As well as challenging some recent theories, it offers controversial new conclusions based on contemporary evidence that has until now been overlooked. This is a triumph of historical writing which will appeal equally to the general listener and the serious historian.