Has Cromwell already made the mistake that will bring him down?
Warning: contains spoilers forThe Mirror and the Lightseason 2 episode 2.
All of that was on display in this episode thanks to Mark Rylances many-faceted performance.
Cromwells grief made the most lasting impression.
His love for Wolsey is a North star when it comes to interpreting this tricky character.
How do you remake your reputation with the dead?
Not in this life.
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Who was it who poured that poison into Dorotheas ear?
Perhaps the Cardinal himself, or perhaps Cromwells enemies the Duke of Norfolk, or the Pole family.
Norfolk was absent in person from episode two, but behind most of its drama.
Of course it was Howards half-brother, Norfolk.
Unless… Itisa fabrication, isnt it?
Low-born Cromwell cant possibly entertain hopes of marrying the daughter of English and Spanish royalty.
So why does he risk looking like it by giving Princess Mary a ring?
Could our man be starting to push his luck?
Cromwells luck either being pushed or running out was a preoccupation of Obedience.
What will be the great mistake that leads to his own downfall?
And has it already been committed?
Rochford may well be right.
Those portrait commissions showed Cromwell growing into his new place in society and planning for his legacy.
So did his patient explanations to both Gregory and cocky French servant Christophe.
When that day comes, it will be a duller place.
Contrast his deft cleverness with Henrys increasingly buffoonish behaviour the Turkish disguise indeed.
Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Lightcontinues on Sunday November 24 on BBC One and iPlayer.
It will air on PBS Masterpiece in 2025.
