Abstract

The cultural and historical heritage of the United Kingdom is arguably one of the richest and most famed national identities sociologically speaking. The aesthetic qualities and values of England are well ingrained within the nation’s consequent theological history. An analysis of English heritage and culture, particularly literary culture, is not complete without taking into account the complexities and specific nature of the English theological identity and Church-State relations. The English Reformation of the 16th century not only created a distinctive British culture, but more importantly cemented the nation as leaders in literary and rhetorical spheres. Particularly, William Shakespeare’s contributions to the canon of English Literature were widely based upon, and somewhat constrained to, England’s theological state during the Renaissance and the Early Modern Period. Importantly, while Henry VIII technically spearheaded and created the Church of England, his daughter Elizabeth I should be given the true recognition for definitively situating England within the world’s elite in literature, aesthetics, and the creation of a distinct national identity. Therefore, it is paramount to address the importance and influence of the six wives of Henry VIII, and Queen Elizabeth, in creating and perpetuating the aesthetic practices and identity of Early Modern England. Through isolating the significant figures, texts, and aesthetic theories of the English Reformation, one can certify that English culture, heritage, and national identity are a distinct entity that warrant study and analysis outside of the purely imperial lens.