The Edwardian Reformation (religion) under Somerset

Question 1

How is the “Good Duke” interpretation of Somerset now viewed by historians

Answer 1

This view is dated and has been disproved by modern historians (revisionists). Is certainly a product of its time.

Question 2

What was the historical trend in the early 20th Century when reviewing Somerset’s protectorate and how has this changed.

Answer 2

In the early 20th Century the trend within historical writing was to portray Somerset as the good duke in comparison to Northumberland as the bad duke. Pollard, amongst many others shared this view and it was usually based upon Somerset’s actions within society.
However, recent historiography has moved away from this view and now presents Somerset in more balanced terms.