Compare and contrast Edward and his father.

Edward's father was King Henry VIII. King Henry was a fearsome man, who was very concerned about the succession..... Edward, of course, being successor. Over the course of the story, Henry does whatever necessary to guarantee his son's ascension to the throne, even when he believes him to be insane (actually Tom). Henry certainly loves his son and is totally committed to him. He is, however, an intolerant ruler.

Edward is very different from his father, although, when we first meet him, he seems to be a spoiled, entitled, young man. Over the course of the novel, however, Edward will learn the meaning of justice and intolerance through his experiences outside the court.