In the novel "Bring Up the Bodies" by Hilary Mantel, Gardiner shows a deep sense of pride as he examines his manuscript titled "Of True Obedience." He believes that the king will be highly impressed with the content, which argues against the validity of oaths made to the papacy, asserting the supremacy of oaths to the king, who serves as the head of the church. Gardiner's confidence highlights his belief that the king's authority is divinely mandated and not derived from the pope.

This moment underscores the tension between the monarchy and the papacy during a period of religious transformation. Gardiner's comments reflect the broader theme of loyalty and obedience within the governance structure, emphasizing the idea that a king's power is sanctioned by God, which elevates his authority above that of religious leaders like the pope.