[Uk Model Essay from Exam Board- Level 4] Do You Agree...

(40 MARK) Whereas sources 4 and 6 suggest that Henry had given all power to Wolsey, source 5 contradicts this argument, describing how the king had overall power. Source 4, an extract from Scarisbrick ‘Henry VIII,’ gives the impression that Henry gave all power to Wolsey, whilst he â€Å"hunted and jousted.† Cavendish then states how the king had â€Å"surrendered the cares of the state into the Cardinal’s hands.† This gives the impression that Wolsey had the powers of the king and was in charge of running the country efficiently. This is supported by source 6, where Henry asks Wolsey to watch some of the key nobility as well as â€Å"any others of whom you are superior.† This is clearly Henry giving Wolsey freedom to act as he wishes, thus†¦show more content†¦The author Lotherington describes how government was â€Å"dominated by†¦competing groups† but that overall the â€Å"source of all power was the king.† Lotherington argues that as Wolsey lacked the â€Å"intimate daily contact† enjoyed by others within the court this meant Wolsey was not all powerful. Also, th e king also looked to his Privy Council and Gentlemen’s bedchamber for advice on issues, as well as Wolsey, which shows that Henry shared the power throughout the court. Saying this however, Wolsey had had more power than others (as seen in the Elthem Ordinances) where Wolsey halved the members of Henry’s gentlemen of the Bedchambers from twelve to six, and moved key advisors overseas. This suggests that although the power was shared, Wolsey could still decide who the king received advice from, which indirectly could be interpreted as Wolsey in total control. Also, although source 5 describes the power of the factions Lotherington also states how Wolsey â€Å"controlled the distribution of patronage† which was essential to gain power and status. This gives the impression that Wolsey had overall control of government, and could either air or hinder the careers of the â€Å"ambitious men.† Saying this however, once the amicable grant failed in 1525 Henry lo st faith in Wolsey. This allowed the competing factions, many of whom opposed Wolsey due to his power, to undermine his authority which eventually led to his disapproval and eventually arrest for treason. This