Solon Public Library: Period Dramas and Historical Fiction

The Spanish Princess (season 1)

The Spanish Princess (season 1) follows Catherine of Aragon as she arrives in England to marry Prince Arthur, heir to the English throne. Catherine navigates a new life as an outsider, the trials of a new court, arranged marriage and being separated from her family.

While most fans of history probably only remember Catherine of Aragon as Henry VIII’s wife that was thrown aside for Anne Boleyn, this storyline provides a new angle on Catherine’s life. We see Catherine as a strong heroine, steadfast in her beliefs and willing to do anything to survive.

To start from the beginning of this epic tale, you'll want to be sure to watch The White Queen followed by The White Princess and see how all of these leading ladies struggles and successes are intertwined.

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory

“I was born to be Queen of England and mother of the next King of England. I have to fulfill my destiny, it is my God-given destiny.” ― Philippa Gregory, The Constant Princess

The Spanish Princess is adapted from the book, The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory, and if you’d rather read the historical fiction than watch it, you won’t be disappointed! Gregory is able to bring these historical figures to life and we see them not as distant relics but true, flesh and blood humans.

The White Queen by Philippa Gregory

The White Queen series is adapted from the book, The White Queen by Philippa Gregory, and tells the story of three women during the wars of the Plantagenets, 15^th century England. We learn of Elizabeth Woodville’s unrivaled beauty and ambitions that led her to the “boy king” and her rise to royalty.

The White Princess by Philippa Gregory

Elizabeth’s tale then leads us to the story of her daughter, Elizabeth York, The White Princess. Another tale of battle for England’s throne. Elizabeth York must choose between her family and the crown. Elizabeth and Henry Tudor’s tale then leads us to Catherine of Aragon.