What makes a marriage work - especially in a world where love was often optional and politics were everything?

In this episode of Off the Record, Amy and I dive into the messy, fascinating world of marriage in Tudor England - where alliances could build dynasties… or completely destroy them. We’re looking beyond Henry VIII’s famously disastrous relationships (don’t worry, he gets enough attention) and instead shining a light on other unions that reveal what “good” and “bad” really meant in the 16th century.

From genuinely supportive partnerships like Henry VII and Elizabeth of York - where stability and mutual respect helped heal a kingdom - to deeply troubled matches like Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk and Elizabeth Stafford, where power struggles and personal cruelty played out behind closed doors… we’re breaking it all down.

What did a “good marriage” actually look like in Tudor society? Was it about love, loyalty, survival—or simply staying out of trouble? And how do we even begin to judge these relationships by modern standards?

Expect strong opinions, a few laughs, and plenty of moments where you’ll be glad you’re not navigating courtship in the 1500s.

Because in Tudor England… marriage wasn’t just personal. It was political.

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Hosts:

Rebecca Larson

Amy McElroy