Role of religion in society Flashcards
(14 cards)
What role did Theobald of Bec play during the Anarchy and Henry II’s accession?
As Archbishop of Canterbury, he effectively governed England in Stephen’s final years and arranged Henry’s peaceful succession in 1154.
Theobald’s influence was pivotal in stabilizing the monarchy during a turbulent period.
How did the Church influence royal governance?
Bishops and abbots sat on the King’s Council, acted as justiciars, diplomats, and even regents. They were key advisers and officials in Henry II’s government.
Their roles often blurred the lines between ecclesiastical and secular authority.
What was the significance of Thomas Becket’s role as Chancellor (1155–1162)?
He was responsible for issuing writs and managing royal documents; his close cooperation with Henry II helped strengthen royal control—until their later conflict.
Becket’s eventual opposition to Henry II highlighted the tensions between church and state.
Why did the Church’s autonomy pose a problem for Henry II?
Bishops could appeal to Rome, avoiding royal control. Clergy were also subject to ecclesiastical courts, weakening Henry’s legal authority.
This autonomy challenged Henry’s efforts to centralize power.
What were ecclesiastical courts, and what did they handle?
Courts run by the Church that dealt with marriage, wills, clerical offences, and moral crimes like adultery.
These courts operated under different legal standards than secular courts.
What advantage did clergy have in ecclesiastical courts?
They avoided harsh punishments—no execution or mutilation. Instead, penalties included penance, fines, or suspension.
This leniency contributed to the perception of clerical privilege.
What did Henry II attempt to change in the Constitutions of Clarendon (1164)?
He tried to have ‘criminous clerks’ (clergy who committed serious crimes) tried in royal courts instead of church courts.
This was a significant move to assert royal authority over the Church.
How did ecclesiastical courts weaken royal justice?
Clergy exploited the ‘benefit of clergy’ to avoid secular trials; this undermined the king’s control over law enforcement.
This practice created a dual legal system that favored the clergy.
Why was the Church economically powerful in 12th-century England?
It owned vast lands and collected tithes (10%) of everyone’s income. Monasteries also ran large agricultural and commercial operations.
This economic foundation allowed the Church to wield significant influence.
How did the Church influence the local economy?
Monasteries were employers, provided poor relief, ran hospitals, schools, and managed estates—integral to social welfare and local trade.
Their economic activities were crucial for community stability.
What was the tithe, and who paid it?
A compulsory tax of 10% of annual income or produce, paid by all, funding the Church’s spiritual and economic activities.
The tithe was a significant source of revenue for the Church.
How did Henry II involve Church figures in royal finances?
Bishops like Nigel of Ely and Richard FitzNigel served as royal treasurers and exchequer officials, demonstrating Church influence on finance.
This integration of Church and state finances reflected the intertwined nature of their roles.
How many people could claim benefit of the clergy?
One in five over 15% of population
