Queen Katherine Loved Learning
Katherine’s parents, Isabella and Ferdinand of Spain, strongly believed in educating their children. Katherine’s father, recognizing her intellect, appointed her as Spanish Ambassador in the difficult period before she married Henry VIII. She was the first female ambassador in Europe. Katherine carried on this love of learning, giving daughter Mary a well-rounded education.
She worked with Renaissance humanist Juan Luis Vives, one of Mary’s instructors, to publish The Education of a Christian Woman. The book promoted education for all women, without consideration of social status. The book, and the ideas behind it, were controversial. Her education prepared her for taking over as Henry’s regent for six months.
