Detail: Lady Jane Grey
by Paul Delaroche, 1833
When Edward died of consumption in 1554 the Lord Protector forced his will on the council in a masterful coup d'Ètat, sent troops into the country to capture both Mary and Elizabeth, and dragged the young couple back from their honeymoon to proclaim Jane queen. Unfortunately both princesses had been forwarned and both eluded capture. The council soon defected and proclaimed Mary queen. Thus leaving Jane, after nine days, merely another pretender to the throne. The rightful heir rode into London after a short skirmish, throwing all those involved into the Tower to await trial.
Mary's inclination to mercy towards her young cousin was short lived when Jane's father, the Duke of Suffolk, led an insurrection in Jane's name. Merciful Mary was no more and both Jane and her husband were condemned to die forthwith.
The executioner told Jane where to stand. She replied, 'I pray you despatch me quickly.' She began to kneel, then hesitated and said, 'Will you take it off before I lay me down?' The executioner answered, 'No madame.' Jane tied the handkerchief around her eyes. Unable to locate the block, she became anxious, 'Where is it? What shall I do? Where is it?' she asked, her voice faltering. Those who stood upon the scaffold seemed unsure of what to do. 'One of the standers by' climbed the scaffold and helped her to the block. Her last words were, 'Lord, into thy hands I commend my spirit.'
After the executioner had completed his task, according to tradition, her head was then held aloft with the words, 'So perish all the Queen's enemies. Behold, the head of a traitor.'
Lady Jane Grey
by Paul Delaroche, 1833
Comments (2)
Why Did Lady Jane Grey Get Beheaded ??
Posted by latitia | May 5, 2009 10:34 AM
Posted on May 5, 2009 10:34
Thank you for this. I'm playing her in a school play and I really whanted to get into character. This is so sad.
Posted by yamellett | November 7, 2009 7:05 PM
Posted on November 7, 2009 19:05