The characters in "Wolf Hall" find themselves grappling with the perplexing events unfolding around them. There is a sense of frustration as they seek understanding, each wondering how such situations arose. This turmoil is heightened by the dramatic imagery of "the steaming blood of Christ," a powerful expression that conveys their deep confusion and concern.

This vivid oath hints at a weighty heritage, particularly invoking the name of Thomas Howard, the senior duke. It reflects the characters' entangled loyalties and the gravity of their predicament, emphasizing the uncertainty that envelops them as they navigate a complex political and social landscape.