Now reading: The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory.Post your comments about this book to this post. Books are available to check out at the circulation desk or click on the title above to reserve your copy on the SAILS Library Network.
A historical novel introduces Katherine of Aragon, daughter of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. She is fated to marry Prince Arthur of England, and when they meet it is a passionate match. But tragedy strikes, when only 15, Arthur falls ill and makes Katherine prmise to marry his brother Henry and become Queen. This is Katherine's story.
Questions to aks while you read:
1. How realistic do you feel the portrayal of this period was? Do you think Philippa Gregory has managed to shed new light on an already popular period of history?
2. Philippa Gregory creates fantastic, strong female characters. But to what extent are you left with a sense that the female spirit has prevailed or are they ultimately still bound to men?
3. Discuss the relationship between the Spanish and the Moors. How do you think this affects Katherine?
4. How is Catalina used as a political pawn by her parents? What is your opinion of Isabella of Spain, both as a monarch and as a mother? How about King Ferdinand?
5. When it's realized that Catalina is not pregnant with Arthur's child, her mother sends an emissary to escort her home to Spain. Why does Catalina, who was raised knowing it's a princess's duty to obey her parents, defy her mother and remain in England? Why is it so important to her that she not return to Spain? Are her reasons more political or personal?
6. Describe Katherine and Henry's marriage. How is the age difference (Henry is six years Katherine's junior) a factor? How does Katherine's first confinement -- for what turns out to be a false pregnancy -- change their relationship and her standing in the court?
(Questions from SimonSays.com)
