Mary Boleyn

Mary is the sister of Anne Boleyn, and the mistress of both Francois and Henry

## History

### Youth

Mary was born in England as the eldest child of Thomas Boleyn and Lady Elizabeth Howard. During her early years, she received an education in Kent alongside her two siblings, George and Anne. She learned many things, including arts, arithmetic, reading, writing, and history. She was also educated in the feminine arts of embroidery, music, etiquette, and dancing. She also took an interest in more energetic hobbies like archery, falconry, and horseback riding.

### Time in the French Court

Around the age of fifteen, Mary accompanied the King of England's sister, Princess Mary, to Paris. Even after the other ladies left, including the Princess, who was eventually widowed, Mary chose to stay in the court of Francois and Claude. It was around this time that she was joined by her father, as well as her sister, who had been studying in France for a year or so.

It was also around this moment that Mary is rumored to have conducted her many romances and flings, including one with King Francois himself. He even described her as "the English Mare", "my hackney", and "*una grandissima ribalda, infame sopra tutte*" (Translation: a very great whore, the most infamous of any)

### Return to England

In 1519, Mary returned to England, becoming a maid of honor to Queen Catherine of Aragon. She married William Carrey, but was also the mistress of King Henry.

## Appearance

Mary is a pretty young lady in her mid twenties. She has mid length brown hair, which she usually keeps braided or in a bun, and pinned up beneath a black snood. She wears a long white chemise and black leggings underneath a stylish blue court gown. She does not wear as much jewelry as the other ladies of the court, but she does have a few golden pins, and she carries a wicker basket and fan.

## Personality

Mary is a good hearted lady who is always willing to give a helping hand to others. She is quite flirtatious, especially with the royals, and was likely the role model for her sister, Anne. She is also very clever, and has a great sense of humor.

## Relationships

### Family

#### Anne: Sister

Anne and Mary are fairly close as sisters go, and share many interests, including their taste in royal men. They are a great team when it comes to causing mischief.

#### Thomas Boleyn: Father

Mary was always very close to her father, as he was the one who opened many opportunities for her. Both she and her sister have always been Daddy's girls.

### Others

#### King Henry VIII

Henry VIII and Mary Boleyn were lovers for a while, despite the fact that both of them were married at the time. It is unknown when exactly their liaison started nor ended, though there has been questioning of whether or not their affair had any overlap with the one she had with Francois.

#### King Francois

Mary and Francois were lovers for a time. Although they have gone their separate ways, with Mary returning to England, they parted on good terms, and continue to be friendly on the rare occasion that they cross paths.

## Gallery

SignatureHistorical PortraitThe Boleyn SistersMary and FrancisThe Boleyn Family