Thomas Becket

Biographical Details:

  • Lived 1119-1170 A.D.

Biography:

Thomas Becket, born around 1119 in London, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most significant figures in medieval English history. He was educated in London, Paris, and Bologna, preparing him for a life in both the church and royal administration. Becket’s path to power began when he became a close confidant of King Henry II, who appointed him Lord Chancellor in 1155. In this role, Becket efficiently managed the king’s finances and administered justice, often acting in Henry’s interest. Their friendship flourished during this time, and in 1162, Henry secured Becket’s appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury, expecting him to continue aligning the Church with royal authority.

However, Becket’s commitment to the Church’s autonomy soon led to conflict with Henry. As Archbishop, Becket opposed the king’s efforts to diminish clerical privileges and extend royal control over the Church. The conflict escalated when Becket refused to accept the Constitutions of Clarendon, which sought to limit ecclesiastical power in legal matters. Henry’s anger grew, and Becket fled to France in 1164 to escape the king’s reprisals. For six years, Becket lived in exile, spending much of his time at the Cistercian abbey of Pontigny, under the protection of King Louis VII of France. Although Henry pursued him and his allies with edicts, Becket resisted by threatening excommunication and interdicts against the king and his bishops.

Negotiations mediated by papal legates failed to resolve the dispute. In December 1170, Becket returned to England, and within weeks, he was assassinated by four knights in Canterbury Cathedral, acting on a misunderstood wish of Henry. Becket was swiftly venerated as a martyr.

Extant writings of Becket include his letters and some theological treatises. Famous biographies include works by John of Salisbury, Edward Grim, and William FitzStephen.

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Extant Writings:

  • letters
  • theological treatises

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Quotes and Excerpts: