Lady Jane Seymour facts for kids

Lady Jane Seymour (born around 1541 – died March 19, 1561) was an English writer. She lived during the 1500s, a time known as the 16th century. Jane wrote alongside her sisters, Lady Margaret Seymour and Anne Seymour, Countess of Warwick.

Her father was Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset. He became a very powerful person in England. From 1547, he was the Lord Protector. This meant he ruled England after King Henry VIII died. He ruled while Jane's cousin, King Edward VI, was too young to be king.

Jane was likely named after Queen Jane, who was King Henry VIII's third wife. Queen Jane was also Lady Jane Seymour's aunt. Lady Jane Seymour was born around 1541. She was christened on February 22, 1541. Her godmothers were important people. They included Lady Mary, who later became Queen Mary I. The other godmother was Katherine Howard, who was King Henry VIII's fifth wife.

Lady Jane Seymour's Family Life

Growing Up in a Royal Family

Lady Jane Seymour was part of a very important family. Her father, Edward Seymour, was a powerful duke. He was also the uncle of King Edward VI. This meant Jane grew up close to the royal family.

Her family was involved in the politics of the time. This gave Jane a unique view of England's history. She lived during a period of big changes.

A Witness to History

In 1560, Lady Jane Seymour saw a secret wedding. Her brother, Edward, married Lady Katherine Grey. Lady Katherine Grey was a possible heir to Queen Elizabeth I. This means she might have become queen one day. Jane was the only person who saw this marriage happen.

Her Early Death

Lady Jane Seymour died about a year after the secret wedding. She was only 20 years old. It is believed she died from a sickness called tuberculosis. This was a common and serious illness back then.

Lady Jane Seymour's Writings

Working with Her Sisters

Lady Jane Seymour was known for her writing. She often worked with her sisters. They were all interested in learning and literature. This was not common for women at that time.

Their Famous Work: Hecatodistichon

The Seymour sisters created a famous work together. It was a collection of 103 Latin poems. These poems were called Hecatodistichon. They were written for the tomb of Margaret of Valois. Margaret of Valois was the queen of Navarre. She was also a writer herself.

The sisters' book was published in 1550. This showed their talent and education. It was a big achievement for young women in the 16th century.