Katherine Parr survived the fearsome reign of Henry VIII, a king whose relentless pursuit of a male heir left wives disgraced, divorced, or dead. Intelligent, devout, and politically astute, Katherine navigated the Tudor court with caution and resolve. She acted as regent, promoted religious reform, and managed to do what no other wife could—outlive the king whose shadow loomed over them all. But survival did not grant her peace. Katherine died in 1548 and was laid to rest at Sudeley Castle, her grave meant to mark the quiet end of a remarkable life. Instead, centuries later, her body became the subject of morbid fascination. In the late 18th century, her…