A review by mari1532
The Tudors in Love: The Courtly Code Behind the Last Medieval Dynasty by Sarah Gristwood

informative reflective medium-paced

3.5

I love Gristwood’s work. If she’s involved in anyway I am consuming. So, I was thrilled to learn that my library had obtained a copy of this book.

I devoured this book. The way that Gristwood was able to integrate the narrative of chivalric tradition and the Tudor court was so interesting. 

My absolute favorite parts of the book were the discussion of Mary, Dowager Queen of France, Margaret, Queen of Scots, and Margaret Douglas. These women do not get nearly enough coverage in many Tudor works and it was refreshing and so interesting to see them integrated as part of the story.

I did enjoy this book but there were a few parts where the book just did not grasp my attention as much. For instance, the early history of chivalry or the current presence of it in our culture. It wasn’t that these parts weren’t interesting, they just weren’t as captivating.

A great cultural history of the Tudor period and any Tudor lover is bound to enjoy it.