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Stower Origins: Who was King Edward of 17th century? (61* d) Origins: Who was King Edward of 17th century? 09 Dec 10

I am researching (for performance) 'A Courtly New Ballad of the Princely Wooing of the fair maid of London, by King Edward', published as a broadsheet 1684-1686 and found here.

The song is about King Edward. The previous Edward to the broadside was Edward VI, reigned 1547-1553, the boy king, so it can't be him. And the next was Edward VII, who was not to reign until 1901, so it's not him.

So is the King Edward of the song a literary device, or might it be about the real antics of a European King Edward, married twice and not especially faithful? Or could King Edward be a pseudonym for King Charles II, famously a sexual profligate, making the song a statement that women should keep away from this predatory and unwholesome man?

Any suggestions or information would be very welcome.

Stower.

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