The play centers on the political and personal instability of King Henry VIII’s court, specifically the fall of Cardinal Wolsey and the rise of Anne Boleyn. The narrative follows the King’s pursuit of an annulment from Queen Katherine, a process that triggers a series of power struggles among the nobility and clergy. The play utilizes a formal, episodic structure to depict the shifting alliances within the Tudor court, emphasizing the fragility of status and the influence of royal favor. The protagonist, King Henry, acts as the primary catalyst for these changes, while the opposing forces of religious tradition and political ambition create a volatile environment for those surrounding him.

Discussion often centers on the play's unique position within the Shakespearean canon, particularly regarding its collaborative nature with John Fletcher. Readers frequently highlight the shift in tone between the scenes attributed to Shakespeare and those written by Fletcher, noting the distinct stylistic differences in character development. Critics often examine the play's focus on historical pageantry and its function as a commentary on the legitimacy of the Tudor dynasty. The work is frequently analyzed for its nuanced portrayal of Queen Katherine, whose dignity serves as a moral anchor amidst the political turbulence of the court. Scholars continue to debate the play's structural integrity and its effectiveness in balancing historical accuracy with dramatic narrative requirements.