Greensleeves is one of the most recognisable traditional English melodies, but its history is full of surprises.
For generations, people have claimed that Henry VIII wrote it for Anne Boleyn while trying to win her affection.
There's just one problem: no reliable historical evidence connects the song with either of them!
The earliest known printing records date from 1580, more than 30 years after Henry's death.
And there's much more to the story.
The earliest surviving lyrics, printed in 1584, contain 18 verses. Rather than being a simple romantic song, they describe a disappointed admirer who spends lavishly on clothing and gifts while the woman he desires refuses his advances.
The melody also went on to become dance music, instrumental music and eventually the tune of the Christmas carol What Child Is This?
A Few Questions Worth Discussing
- Did you grow up believing Henry VIII wrote Greensleeves for Anne Boleyn?
- Do you associate the melody with Tudor history, traditional folk music or Christmas?
- Does knowing the original lyrics change how you interpret the song?
- Do you hear the narrator as a rejected romantic or someone who refuses to accept the woman's decision?
- Should we continue celebrating historical songs even when the popular stories about their origins turn out to be unsupported?
- What's your favourite version of Greensleeves - a voice and lute, an orchestra, a folk singer or another arrangement?
Read the full history:
The Origins of Greensleeves - Songs And Poems
What are your thoughts?
All respectful opinions, interpretations and historical contributions are welcome.