Act I

After the Prologue foretells that mightiness will meet misery, the scene opens in London, 1520, shortly after a sumptuous meeting of state in France. Buckingham asks an account from Norfolk, who describes an incredible display of riches, and credits Cardinal Wolsey for the spectacle. Buckingham expresses vehement dislike of Wolsey. Norfolk warns him against arousing Wolsey's anger. Buckingham continues, and Norfolk tries to calm him. Buckingham is arrested, and realizes he has been framed by Wolsey. At court, King Henry prepares to hear Buckingham's case, but is interrupted by Queen Katherine, who pleads on behalf of the commoners against a new tax. Ignorant of the tax, Henry questions Wolsey, who claims the Council approved it. Henry pardons the commoners. Buckingham's servant testifies against him. Despite Katherine's mistrust of the servant, Henry pronounces Buckingham a traitor. Later, the nobles eagerly anticipate Wolsey's banquet. At the banquet Anne Bullen...