Lizzie and Henry becoming increasingly convinced that The Boy is Richard of York. But are they willing to give up the throne? Get a sneak peek of The White Princess finale!
I really can’t believe that we’re already at the end of this season of The White Princess.
What has been clear since the very beginning of episode one is that Henry’s hold on the English throne is severely tenuous. Despite his attempts to win the people to his side (aristocrats and ordinary folk), crush rebellion (domestic and abroad), and eliminate rivals, Henry remains on shaky ground. The interesting thing is that much of the chaos is the result of Lizzie’s initial scheming, which Elizabeth Woodville carries on until her death. Despite Lizzie falling in love with Henry and joining Team Tudor, you can definitely see her link to the York cause is still a part of her. Perhaps this shouldn’t surprise us.
One would think that, with The Boy captive and in London, Henry would solidify his claims. However, things become even more tumultuous. Even as Henry tries to bring The Boy low, making him a servant, seducing his wife (Cathy Gordon), naming his son bastard and giving him to another family, “Richard” maintains that he is the true King. The citizens of London start to believe, Maggie Pole starts to believe, Lizzie (despite her most valiant attempts) starts to believe, and even Henry starts to believe. It literally drives Henry mad, as he thinks he can hear whispers of those conspiring against him and supporting “Richard”. *SIDENOTE* Watching Lizzie watch Henry
When Lizzie takes a big risk to help “Richard” escape, it back fires in a massive way. Can we talk about why “Richard” would decide to go back to the building, emerge from the fire, and claim that his ability to survive shows he’s the God-ordained king? WSN reader Victoria R. made a comment on our “Two Kings” recap that presents an interesting perspective. “Richard” knows that the Duchess of Burgundy is in England and rallying allies. Why not escape, regroup, and then come back to fight Henry with an army and resources? Wouldn’t a York consider strategy and what’s best for the English people. The Boy’s decision to stay in Westminster seems foolish and kind of selfish.
Regardless, there’s nothing else Lizzie can do for “Richard”… Henry has to kill him, right?
In this week’s finale episode “Old Curses” (written by Sarah Phelps, directed by Jamie Payne):
A final confrontation with the pretender exposes Henry’s weaknesses. Elizabeth faces new demons and old curses, and must make a final decision on her family’s fate. (via STARZ)
Take a look at these two clips from the upcoming show. In the first, Lizzie begs Henry not to kill “Richard”, not for the sake of The Boy, but for their family. Lizzie tells him about the curse she and her mother cast. In the second clip, Lizzie visits “Richard” in the Tower.
So, Lizzie and now Henry are firmly in The Boy = Richard of York camp. But I can’t blame them for being worried. “Richard” can promise the Tudors safety and justice, but the truth is that they would be a threat. And why wouldn’t “Richard” want to eliminate his rivals to the throne (including Teddy Plantagenet)?!
How do you think things are about to shake down?
Check out seven images from “Old Curses” and don’t forget to live tweet with @WeSoNerdy this Sunday, June 4 at 8:00pm ET on STARZ!
