Intelligence and Witchcraft – What Caused the Downfall of Anne Boleyn?

Heartless propaganda made people believe that Anne Boleyn was a witch – a woman who manipulated the king and put spells on him to reach her goals. She was obviously a very intelligent woman, but her story shows that the skills she gained were not enough to survive.

Anne Boleyn didn't cry when she was going to her death. She was dressed in a gray dress worthy of a queen. Did she hope that Henry would save her at the last moment? The answer is unknown. While she was on the way to her demise he was fighting with his doubts, but before he had made a decision whether to cancel the sentence or not, Anne was already gone from this world.

A Girl Who Loved to Learn

Anne Boleyn was born in 1501 as a daughter of Thomas Boleyn, 1st Earl of Wiltshire, and Lady Elizabeth Howard. Her childhood was similar to that of other noble daughters. Apart from learning, she spent much of her time in nature and playing. Over time, she understood that if she was going to advance higher than most of the women of her status she needed to be more exceptional and much smarter.

Oil on panel of Anne Boleyn, held at the National Portrait Gallery, London, England. (Public Domain)