Henry Viii Dissolution Analysis

The term “dissolution,” as defined by Merriam-Webster, is “the act or process of dissolving: as a: separation into component parts. b (1): decay, disintegration (2): death. c: termination or destruction by breaking down, disrupting, or dispersing…d: the dissolving of an assembly or organization…” Each of these descriptions accurately describes a different aspect of Dissolution by C. J. Sansom. The reign of Henry VIII saw the termination of Henry VIII’s marriages, disintegration of commonly held religious beliefs, and the dissolution of monasteries, and Commissioner Shardlake’s beliefs. The first dissolution leads to two other dissolutions: Henry’s request to dissolve his union to Catherine of Aragon, in order to marry Anne Boleyn. To understand the reasoning for Henry’s request, we must first understand what led Henry to this point. Henry had married Catherine of Aragon, his brother’s widow. Although this marriage would have been prohibited and invalid in accordance with Leviticus 18:16 …show more content…
Wolsey being a cardinal with a heavy influence and good relationship with Rome, Henry was certain that Wolsey would be able to secure the annulment from Catherine with Wolsey pleading his case in Rome. Instead of asking the Pope for an annulment, Wolsey argues on behalf of Henry that the marriage was never valid because Pope Julius II did not have the right to give the special dispensation to marry Arthur’s widow. Henry claimed that no Pope could dispense a law from God. Pope Clement VII is unwilling to concede that Julius II lacked the power to grant the special dispensation. Even more troubling is that Pope Clement VII had been in the captivity of Charles V, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, and the nephew of Catherine of Aragon. It was in the Pope’s best interest to not grant the annulment, as it seems Pope Clement VII seemed to fear Charles V more than Henry