The Other Boleyn Girl

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of gender discrimination, death, sexual content, and graphic violence. 

“There could hardly be a world for me without Anne, there was hardly world enough for us both.”

Upon her return to the English court, Anne is presented as Mary’s double and rival. They feel some affection as sisters, but Mary also resents when Anne has more honors or opportunities. This is evident in describing the world as both empty “without Anne” and too small “for us both.” This wary bond of alliance and jealousy plays out throughout the book as the sisters take different roles antagonizing and supporting one another, developing Support and Rivalry Among Women.

“We men are not where we are today because of some sort of accident. We chose to get into the great places of power, despite the desires of women; and we chose to use those places to make laws which will hold us there forever.”

One of the novel’s primary concerns is women’s place in this culture. Here, Mary notices the restrictions put upon her. Uncle Howard’s declaration emphasizes that men have made a concerted effort to seize and hold public power rather than by “some sort of accident.” In doing so, they have intentionally shaped the world to their advantage and plotted to keep women and children subservient. The authority and tyranny of those in power are thematic concerns throughout the novel.

“Whatever does [love] mean? We write poems about it all day and sing songs about it all night but if there is such a thing in real life I’m damned if I know.”

George points out the paradox that courtly love is an artificial construct. While it is the topic of music and poetry, courtly love is the antithesis of real, passionate love. Love becomes a