<p> Before the infamous reign of Henry VIII, before the break with Rome and the whirlwind of marriages, there was a young prince groomed for greatness. In this episode of <em>The Lion and the Rose</em>, we delve into the early years of Henry’s life—a period marked by chivalric ideals, humanist learning, and the influence of masterful minds like Thomas More, John Skelton, and Erasmus. Discover how a second-born son transformed into the heir to the Tudor legacy, his childhood shaped by towering ambitions, intellectual rigor, and a court obsessed with the display of power. Join us as we unravel the making of a legend and uncover the forces that set Henry VIII on his path to becoming one of England’s most remarkable—and controversial—monarchs. Listen in and explore the origins of a king whose story would alter the course of history. And remember, keep your sword sharp, and your history sharper!</p>