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Henry VIII is a play written by William Shakespeare that explores the life and reign of the titular English king
. It is believed to have been written in 1613 and was first performed that same year. The narrative unfolds with political intrigue, marriages, and the formation of the Church of England. The play explores the dynamics of power, the complexities of royal relationships, and the consequences of political maneuvering. Henry VIII is also known as All Is True, which is the title it carried prior to its publication as Henry VIII in the First Folio in 1623.Read the full play summary, the full play analysis, and a complete list of character descriptions from Henry VIII.