In this week’s Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, the bells of celebration barely fade before the somber tolls of mourning take over. Henry VIII, ever desperate for a male heir, finally gets his wish with the birth of Prince Edward. But as anyone familiar with Tudor history knows, joy is a fleeting guest in Henry’s court. Just 12 days after bringing new life into the world, Jane Seymour departs it, leaving the king and his court in grief.
Episode 4 picks up with England in a state of cautious optimism. The northern rebellions have been quelled, and Lady Mary has returned to court, seemingly signaling a period of stability. The birth of Prince Edward should solidify this newfound peace, but the sudden death of Queen Jane throws everything into disarray. The episode offers a sharp contrast between jubilant celebration and profound sorrow, underscoring the precarious nature of life and fortune in the Tudor era.
With director Peter Kosminsky at the helm, the episode efficiently handles the emotional complications of these events. Mark Rylance, as always, delivers a measured and compelling performance as Thomas Cromwell, tasked with nagotiating the shifting political landscape and the king’s volatile moods. Damian Lewis embodies Henry’s capricious nature, portraying a man torn between elation and devastation. Kate Phillips as Jane Seymour, imbues the queen with a quiet strength and vulnerability.
This episode isn’t just courtly intrigue and royal heartbreak; it’s a demonstratio of the strengths of historical drama BBC Style. The performances are top-notch, the writing is sharp, and the direction is superb. Even those unfamiliar with the earlier Wolf Hall installments can easily find their footing in this standalone chapter of Tudor history.
Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light airs Sundays at 9:00 PM on BBC One.
