Hilary Mantel, an English author (born 1952) wrote a three-volume masterpiece set in the court of King Henry VIII of England during the period 1509 to 1540. The novels, beginning with “Wolf Hall” (2009), reference all four Thomases mentioned in the answer options and many other historical figures from this period. However, at its heart, the series is a sympathetic fictionalised biography documenting the rapid rise to power and subsequent demise of Thomas Cromwell (1485-1540).

On his way up, Thomas Cromwell was showered with official titles and honours -- 1st Earl of Essex, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Lord Privy Seal, Secretary of State, Master of the Rolls. In practice, he became Henry’s fixer in both affairs of state and personal matters. On his way down, the end came quickly. In 1540 Cromwell was sentenced to death for treason and executed on Tower Hill. It was a botched beheading.

Here are the fates of the others mentioned in the answer options:

Sir Thomas More (1478 – 1535) was Lord Chancellor and was also executed for treason on Tower Hill.

Thomas Wolsey (1473 – 1530), commonly known as Cardinal Wolsey, occupied the role of Lord Chancellor. He too was accused of treason, but he died on the way to London.

Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk, (1473 –1554) was Lord High Treasurer. He was suspected of conspiracy in treason and thrown into the Tower. But Henry died first (of natural causes).

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