PETRARCHISM AND ITALIAN MUSIC AT THE COURT OF HENRY VIII

Abstract

AbstractIt is clear from some passages of description in the Venetian despatches and related correspondence of the years 1515–1519, that alongside the traditionally English music and verse, so lavishly exhibited in court festivities, an enthusiastic interest was also being shown at that period in the talents of certain Italian musicians resident at Henry VIII's court. This interest derived from the presence there of the numerous Italians who maintained political, and commercial contacts with the states they represented, particularly those of the North. The State Papers bear continual witness to the ties of friendship existing between England and Ferrara; and both independently and through the d'Este family, with the neighbouring states of Mantua and Urbino. Centuries old trade with Venice had brought Venetian merchants to London in such numbers, that since 1497 the Signory had maintained an embassy in England. It seems, therefore, quite fitting that it should be from the Venetians that we have an insight ...