Entry Three

While the switch between Tom and Prince Edward was completely unintentional, I am surprised by how bitter Edward was when he knew it was a mistake. Though I understand how devastating it would be to go from riches to rags and to be beaten by strangers, Edward swore to have Tom hanged once he got back to his throne. Another thing that surprised me was how well Tom was adjusting to his new life. When King Henry XIII died, Tom stepped up as his role of the new King and changed things for the better. He saved multiple people from death and attempted to right the debts that Henry had managed to build up during his reign. Edward was getting along better when he met Miles Hendon, who took care of him, but for the most part, he kept his royal etiquette. I don't think it fully hit him that he was now a peasant because he still expected to have servants to do things for him and for people to rise at his presence. Though I'm not sure, I think Tom is doing a better job as the King than Edward would, since Tom was exposed to life outside the castle while Edward knows nothing better. Tom can decide what is best for the people, such as trying to pay off their debts, while Edward probably wouldn't judging by how his uncle assisted Tom by telling him not to bring up or even think about the debts. Though Edward definitely doesn't like it and Tom would prefer a more normal life, I think it might be better that they are experiencing life on the other side. Tom almost seems like he can actually be the king, which was very surprising.

http://www.luminarium.org/renlit/tudor.htm This website includes information on King Henry XIII, who was the real king of England in the 1500's and was used as the father of Edward in The Prince and the Pauper. The information about his life, and the subsequent links to his wives and children (including Edward) helps to provide a background to the life of the Tudor family during the novel. The site gives multiple links, including historical events during the time of King Henry XIII's rule and also of other rulers who had the throne at the time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1eyWpUpkwI&feature=related The video explains the form of execution during the Tudor rule. In the novel, King Henry XIII demanded the execution of the Duke of Norfolk, and afterward three peasants were sentenced to harsh deaths such as death by boiling. In history, King Henry XIII was popular for killing his wives, marrying a total of eight times.