Lady Jane Grey

Lady Jane Grey (October 12?, 1537–February 12, 1554), was a great granddaughter of Henry VII of England, and was proclaimed Queen of England for nine days in 1553. Her status as a monarch is controversial; her succession contravened an Act of Parliament, but so did the succession of several other monarchs. However, after her rule ended, her proclamation as Queen was revoked. She was also known as one of the most learned women of her day, described by the historian Alison Weir as one of “the finest female minds of the century.”

Early life and education

Jane was born at Bradgate Park near Leicester in October 1537, the eldest daughter of Henry Grey, Marquess of Dorset and his wife Lady Frances Brandon. October 12 has been suggested as a date of birth. She had two younger sisters: Lady Catherine Grey and Lady Mary Grey.

Related Topics:
Bradgate Park - Leicester - 1537 - Henry Grey, Marquess of Dorset - Lady Frances Brandon - October 12 - Lady Catherine Grey - Lady Mary Grey

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As a girl, she was the beneficiary of the new mode of education for women promoted by certain contemporary humanists, and was tutored by John Aylmer, one of the circle of young Cambridge University scholars who also educated Elizabeth I of England. Like Elizabeth, she also spent time in the household of Henry's then wife, Katherine Parr, Queen consort of Henry VIII of England. When Jane was fifteen, she was observed by an Italian ambassador, and reported to have been fluent in several languages, including Ancient Greek, and capable of debating the most intellectual points with anyone, including learned scholars.

Related Topics:
John Aylmer - Cambridge University - Elizabeth I of England - Katherine Parr - Queen consort - Henry VIII of England - Ancient Greek

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