1. Head of State: As the king, Henry VIII held the highest position of power and authority in the kingdom. He was the supreme ruler and the symbol of the nation.
2. Law and Order: Henry was responsible for maintaining law and order in the realm. He had the power to make and enforce laws, preside over courts, and administer justice.
3. Foreign Policy and Diplomacy: The king directed and controlled the kingdom's foreign policy and diplomatic relations with other countries. He negotiated treaties, alliances, and agreements with foreign powers.
4. Commander-in-Chief: Henry served as the commander-in-chief of England's military forces, including the army and the navy. He made decisions regarding military strategy, led troops into battle, and was responsible for the defense and security of the realm.
5. Patron of the Arts and Sciences: King Henry VIII was a great patron of the arts, literature, and education. He encouraged artistic and intellectual pursuits, supported artists, scholars, and humanists, and established prestigious institutions such as Trinity College in Cambridge.
6. Religious Leader (until 1534): Prior to the English Reformation, Henry VIII acted as the Supreme Head of the Church in England. He regulated religious affairs, appointed bishops and clergy, and played a significant role in shaping the religious landscape of the country. However, after his break with the Catholic Church in 1534, he became the head of the Church of England.
7. Economic Management: The king oversaw economic matters, including taxation, trade, and commerce. He made decisions regarding financial policy, ensured revenue collection, and fostered economic growth and stability within the kingdom.
8. Administration of Justice: Henry VIII played a crucial role in administering justice and ensuring fair legal proceedings. He presided over the Royal Courts, reviewed petitions, and granted pardons and privileges.
9. Appointments and Titles: The king had the authority to appoint or dismiss government officials, bestow titles and honours upon deserving individuals, and grant privileges to loyal subjects.
10. Relations with Parliament: Henry VIII maintained a complex and evolving relationship with the Parliament of England. While he held absolute power, he also relied on Parliament for financial matters, passing legislation, and addressing concerns of the realm.
11. Royal Prerogative: The king exercised royal prerogative, which allowed him to make certain decisions and take actions without the consent or approval of Parliament or other bodies.
It is important to note that King Henry VIII's duties and responsibilities were extensive, and the nature of his rule and the exercise of power varied over the course of his reign.