In Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall," the author explores the profound impact of Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn, suggesting that this union fundamentally disrupted the fabric of Christendom. The phrase "to put the ginger pig in the cradle" symbolically represents how the marriage altered not only the political landscape but also religious affiliations, leading to widespread upheaval.

This marriage ignited a series of events that spiraled into the English Reformation, highlighting the tension between personal desires and institutional power. Mantel's narrative illustrates the complexities of ambition, loyalty, and the shifting dynamics within the court, ultimately showcasing how one marriage could reshape an entire nation’s faith and governance.