1498 - William Parron

In 1498, Italian astrologer, William Parron, joined the court of Henry VII.

At this time, astrology was considered a science and a reputable profession (assuming said astrologer was properly trained). In the sphere of the Tudor court, it would have been used in line with medicine and also in making political plans and decisions.

It was in 1498 that we also see the first printed, English prognostication (prediction for the coming year). Though this particular one was very political in nature, astrologers and printers weren't unaware that to receive patronage, they needed to be reporting what their patrons wanted to read and therefore it needed to be worded favourably.

This 1498 version predicted that Prince Arthur would continue to flourish while suggesting that other countries would run into difficulties. For example, the Holy Roman Emperor would encounter much war and sickness in the coming year.

It also provided weather predictions for the coming year, which were important not only for agricultural purposes but also politically - as food shortages could lead to discontent and uprising.

Around this time, Parron presented Henry with a book, often called The Book of Astrology, which now resides in The British Library (Arundel 66). The image of Henry VII being presented with the book, surrounded by courtiers and churchmen, demonstrates the acceptance of astrology at this time.

In 1503, however, Parron predicted that Henry VII's wife, Elizabeth of York, would live to be 80 years old, whereas she died the following year. He also (incorrectly)predicted a long, full life for Prince Arthur.

We can't tell for sure if this led to him leaving the court, but there are no records of him from this point on.