Cutthroat Facts About Edward De Vere, The Tempestuous Courtier
Some people believe that Edward de Vere was Queen Elizabeth I’s illegitimate son. Or her lover. Others speculate that he was the real author behind Shakespeare’s works. Well, if you can believe it, those rumors are actually the least interesting things about him. After all, who else has an entire Wikipedia section dedicated to “Quarrels, plots, and scandals?” No one did controversy and intrigue quite like Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford—and here’s the proof.
Edward De Vere Facts
1. He Was Already At The Center Of A Power Struggle
Edward de Vere was born in 1550 to John de Vere, the 16th Earl of Oxford—putting him right at the center of some serious historical drama. Henry VIII’s teenaged son, Edward VI, had recently become king—and there were a whole lot of power-hungry courtiers buzzing around him.
So, what better way to suck up to the boy-king than name your son after him? Edward de Vere may have been a pawn in his father’s game—but it wouldn’t take long for him to become the mastermind.
2. Their Reputation Was Bloody
It’s no wonder that Edward de Vere turned out so cold and calculating. After all, look at the example his father set. While John hadn’t really made a name for himself during Henry VIII’s reign, he came into his own when Bloody Mary took the throne—for all the wrong reasons. He was one of the chief enforcers of Mary’s campaign against protestants and helped her prosecute and execute at least 16 people.
John built a disturbing reputation for their family—one that Edward would certainly continue.
3. He Lost His Father
When Edward de Vere was just 12 years old, his father died. A tragedy, sure—but it also complicated things for young Edward. He inherited his father’s titles and land, and that meant he was far too powerful to just be out there living life like a regular kid. He became a ward of the recently crowned Elizabeth I—and thrust right into the middle of court drama.
