The Spanish Princess
By Martin Brown,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Sometimes violent historical drama has relevance to present.
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The Spanish Princess
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Based on 8 parent reviews
Not accurate
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Contains Nudity And sexual content 18+
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What's the Story?
THE SPANISH PRINCESS, Catherine of Aragon (Charlotte Hope), has been betrothed to Arthur, Prince of Wales (Angus Imrie), since she was a child, in order to create an alliance between Spain and England. Seen off by her mother, she embarks on a journey to England to meet her husband and new family. When she arrives, she and her coterie of soldiers and attendants must learn to acclimate to English culture without sacrificing their connection to Spain.
Is It Any Good?
The mark of a good historical drama is whether it has anything relevant to say to modern viewers, and this sensitive series has relevance in spades. At heart, The Spanish Princess is a story about two cultures that must merge for practical purposes, and the way those cultures interact and learn to respect one another while each maintaining their own sense of identity. Looking at the story from Catherine's point of view, as a person who's both royalty and an outsider, is a strong choice -- it's a subversive way to allow viewers to experience the difficulties and rewards of becoming a part of another culture while staying true to yourself.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Catherine of Aragon's experience in becoming British royalty. What is expected of Catherine by her family? By the royal family? How do these expectations inform her actions? What obstacles does she encounter?
How do Catherine of Aragon's experiences make you feel? How does she handle herself when she arrives in England? Do you agree with her choices and how she presents herself? Why or why not?
Families can talk about historical fiction. How can you tell which parts of The Spanish Princess are real and which are made up? Does it matter?
TV Details
- Premiere date: May 5, 2019
- Cast: Charlotte Hope, Angus Imrie, Georgie Henley
- Network: Starz
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, History
- TV rating: TV-MA
- Last updated: November 1, 2022
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