In the realm of magnificence stands a man with unwavering stance, exuding opulence in every aspect. His right hand clutches his purse tightly, while his left hand firmly commands his dagger, his gaze piercing as he challenges anyone who dares to claim he is not a king.
During the 16th century, when Henry ruled with authority, it was crucial to project an image of power. Hans Holbein the Younger’s portrait of Henry in his prime spoke volumes, depicting him confidently rooted, coolly surveying his domain, emanating an air of certainty in his virility and wealth. This portrayal captured the essence of a ruler at the pinnacle of his prime.
Perhaps it is the unapologetic size of the man or his unwavering certainty. It could also be attributed to the luxurious fabrics adorning him. When I envision Henry VIII surrounded by symbols of his wealth, it brings to mind the likeness of Donald Trump. Like Henry, Donald was a product of his time and era. Yet, Henry lived in an era characterized by savagery. He ruled with ultimate authority, and often his pleasures were veiled in vindictiveness. To oppose Henry meant facing his overtly biased Royal Council in the Star Chamber, followed by imprisonment in the Tower and ultimately execution.
During the Tudor era in England, there were no armies of lawyers ready to obscure your case in endless court battles until exhaustion settled in. There were no advocates arguing on your behalf, asserting that despite inciting a mob to violently attack the Capitol and challenge the legitimacy of an election, the burden of proof lay in proving you knowingly committed a crime. In Tudor times, such actions would be deemed treason, and the punishment would be swift and severe. Beheading would merely be the beginning of a horrific fate.
I am not advocating a return to a bygone era where physical punishment was deemed justified for those who failed in their endeavors. However, I do lament our current state of hesitant acknowledgement towards the magnitude of Donald Trump’s crimes. He attempted to overthrow the government and cling to power, actions that in some nations would be classified as a coup.
What I strongly urge and will consistently argue for is the collective and unwavering condemnation of his crimes. In the days of the Tudors, they would cry, “Off with his head!” For us, his reign should not end without a resounding outcry from the public, seeking justification and expressing rage.
Barbara DeMille, a resident of Rensselaerville, echoes these sentiments.
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