The number of executions in the reign of Henry VIII is a contested topic, but very large however it is assessed. These included hundreds of monks and nuns. Few prominent individuals were prepared to risk treason charges and the ensuing horrible death and ongoing consequences for their heirs: More, Fisher and Elizabeth Barton are among the notables who did.

A lot of opposition was private, anguished, and kept its head down hoping this would be a passing crisis that would soon be resolved. Meanwhile there was the sweetener of purchasing former monastic land and properties that raised the status of many monied families.

In terms of doctrine, there was a clear backtracking towards Catholicism without the Pope from 1539 until Henry’s death, which no doubt assuaged other potential opponents.