Thomas Becket, H2 vs the Papacy Flashcards
(21 cards)
Why did Henry II want to control the Church?
To re-establish royal control over the English and Norman Churches and assert legal and financial dominance.
This was inspired by the strong authority exercised by his grandfather Henry I.
What opportunity did Henry gain in 1161?
The death of Archbishop Theobald of Bec allowed him to appoint his own candidate to Canterbury.
Who did Henry nominate as Archbishop of Canterbury, and when?
Thomas Becket, elected in May 1162.
What was Becket’s reaction after becoming Archbishop?
He resigned as Chancellor, adopted austere religious habits, and became a defender of Church rights.
What was the issue of ‘criminous clerks’?
Clergy accused of crimes were tried in ecclesiastical courts, undermining royal justice.
What percentage of the male population could claim benefit of clergy?
Around 15% (1 in 6 men).
What occurred at the Council of Westminster in October 1163?
Henry demanded that criminous clerks be handed to royal courts after Church trials; Becket refused.
What dramatic gesture did Becket make at Westminster?
He entered carrying a silver cross, symbolizing his status as God’s servant.
What were the Constitutions of Clarendon (January 1164)?
A 16-article document asserting royal customs and limiting ecclesiastical independence.
How did Becket react to the Constitutions?
He verbally agreed under pressure but later refused to sign, stating he had agreed only ‘saving our order.’
What was the significance of using chinograph at Clarendon?
It suggested coercion and Becket’s intention not to be bound permanently.
What happened at the Council of Northampton in October 1164?
Becket fled to France to escape likely imprisonment.
What did Becket do while in exile?
He corresponded with Pope Alexander III and issued excommunications against royal clerics.
What was the coronation controversy of 1170?
Henry had his son crowned by the Archbishop of York, bypassing Canterbury’s privilege.
When and how was Becket killed?
On 29 December 1170, he was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by four knights.
Who were the knights that killed Becket?
Reginald FitzUrse, Hugh de Morville, William de Tracy, and Richard le Breton.
What was the reaction to Becket’s death?
Widespread shock and outrage; Becket was canonised in 1173.
What penance did Henry perform in 1174?
He walked barefoot to Canterbury and prayed at Becket’s tomb.
What was the Compromise of Avranches (1174)?
Henry repealed parts of Clarendon, acknowledged Church liberties, and allowed appeals to Rome.
Did Henry retain any control over the Church after Avranches?
Yes, he retained financial leverage and informal influence over episcopal appointments.
