This lesson takes a classic Ian Dawson enquiry format.
Students are tasked with working out why the wealthy and influential Baron Hungerford of Heytesbury was executed in 1540.
Evidence is gradually revealed to students. They are supported in forming and amending their hypotheses as more clues are given to them.
A key aim of the lesson is to encourage students to appreciate the multi-faceted nature of causation.
After all, Hungerford’s execution cannot be attributed to just one cause.
Some historians have focused on the accusations of homosexuality that some (including Hungerford’s wife) levelled at him.
Yet the full picture reveals a man who associated himself too closely with the increasingly unpopular Thomas Cromwell, and perhaps became intertwined with dangerous rebellious activity during the 1530s.
Hungerford’s story offers us an interesting and unique insight into the early modern period.
It reveals the unpredictable nature of life at the Tudor court (and some of the prejudices present in society at the time).
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- Lesson presentation: PowerPoint
- Lesson write-up: PDF
- Worksheet 1: PDF
- Resource 1-2:PDF
Price: £12.99
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