This audioguide will reveal the history of the Tudor dynasty in twenty stages. This is first time that extracts from plays have been included, thereby allowing this illustrious family’s literary and artistic fortunes to be retraced, from William Shakespeare to Victor Hugo.
This is the very first exhibition on the Tudors to be held in France. This dynasty ruled over England, Wales and parts of Ireland between 1485 and 1603. The exhibition features portraits which show how they really looked, and which also present skilful images that reflect their ambitions. These powerful portraits allow viewers to discover the Renaissance in England, a key period in the country’s history. The exhibition also presents a unique opportunity to recall the artistic and diplomatic exchanges that took place between France and England throughout the 16th century. At the same time, it allows viewers to examine the Tudors’ subsequent celebrity status, particularly in 19th century France, when artists and playwrights competed to present scenes from their extraordinary lives. This enthusiasm heralded the later success that films about Henry VIII and Elizabeth enjoyed in the 20th century.