Review of Episode Eight of Season Four of "The Tudors"

The eighth episode of the fourth season of Showtime's hit series The Tudors was certainly an exciting one, as Henry's campaign against the French resulted in a minor victory, his queen Katherine continued to plot with her Protestant allies at court, and his friend Charles Brandon found new love in the person of a French young woman. All in all, it was a fitting episode to air at this particular time, and did a great deal to build up the suspense that will culminate in the final episode of the series.

The highlight of the episode was, of course, Henry's siege of the French city of Boulogne, which eventually resulted in its fall. The battle scenes were actually quite well-constructed, and the outdoor scenes did a great deal to leaven the heaviness that sometimes results from the numerous indoor setpieces. However, these battle scenes also brought out some interesting personal conflicts and issues. For example, it has become increasingly clear that Henry is gradually losing what is left of his mind, probably as a result of his leg, which continues to deteriorate. For example, his command that his sick soldiers be returned to battle read as exactly what it was, the mad rantings of a man on the edge of absolute insanity.

Despite all of the death and destruction, however, these outdoor battle scenes also managed to convey some scenes of tenderness, especially between the two common soldiers. Although their relationship was not as overtly sexual as some of the other male-male interactions (which haven't really been seen since Season Two, with Mark Smeaton and George Boleyn,) it was nevertheless quite touching. The last scene, in which one lays a sprig of flower on the grave of the other, is a truly rare moment of sublime beauty in a series that typically relies upon more violent and powerful scenes to build emotion.

This episode also did a great deal to build up what could in some future time be another series focusing on the lives and reigns of Henry's three children. Sarah Bolger continues to dazzle as Mary, and one cannot help but feel sorry for her as she watches her old friend Chapuys depart England, leaving her almost friendless. Her impassioned speech about her desire to bring England back to Catholicism sets the stage for what will be Mary's tragic reign later in life. Furthermore, Queen Catherine's desire to educate both Elizabeth and Edward will have far-reaching consequences, as each of these monarchs would later become predominantly Protestant in their worldview.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this episode of The Tudors pointed out the rapidly failing health of the already-ill King Henry. It is becoming increasingly obvious that Henry cannot last much longer. Although Rhys Meyers is frequently criticized for his depiction of Henry, he does bring a great deal of energy to the role that is not to be ignored or overlooked. If the previews are to be believed, Rhys Meyers will become quite aged between this episode and the next. For all that he may be petulant and cruel, it will still be a shame to see the series end. If the previous seasons are anything to go by, it's going to be quite thrilling indeed.