Wolf Hall

Consider the female members of King Henry’s court. What types of political power do they wield? Is this power limited to their influence over husbands and lovers? 

Ghosts appear at various points throughout the novel, particularly in moments of characters’ doubt and distress. What is the significance of these ghosts? Consider the appearance of Henry’s brother, Arthur, and Cromwell’s wife, Liz Wykys. 

Though he is never physically present in the events of Wolf Hall, William Tyndale haunts the plot. His chief crime is translating the Bible. Why do characters such as Sir Thomas More take objection to this? What influence does Tyndale have on the characters in the novel?

Despite his initial misgivings, Thomas Cromwell comes to respect Henry VIII as a leader and king. What aspects of Henry make him a good leader? Do these outweigh his negative attributes? 

Consider the claims Anne Boleyn and Katherine have on the title of Queen of England. Who has the greater claim? Is Henry justified in going against the church to annul his marriage to Katherine?

The legendary King Arthur is known as the “Once and Future King.” Prince Arthur and later Henry VIII were groomed to be his second coming. What role does mythology play in Wolf Hall? How do Mantel’s characters use mythology to explain the world around them?

In many ways, Thomas Cromwell is the perfect courtier. What aspects of his character and background allow him to thrive in the king’s court?

Thomas Cromwell and Thomas More perform as foils for each other. Explore their relationship. In what ways are their characters similar? In what ways are they different? What about these characters causes Cromwell’s fortunes to rise, while More’s fall?