What is the theme in The Virgin's Lover by Philippa Gregory?

Ambition is a constant theme throughout the novel, as each character is driven by their own desires into conflict through the course of the events of the plot. The theme of ambition can be studied particularly by looking at Robert Dudley's character and his relationship with his wife Amy. During the period depicted by the book (Tudor England), it is distantly possible for a person to be raised to greatness by being spotted by a wealthy patron or proving indispensable to the throne.