The Assassination of Thomas Becket

The Shocking Assassination of Thomas Becket

Who Was Thomas Becket?

Thomas Becket, born around 1118 in London, became the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1162. His rise to power was significant, particularly in the conflict between the church and the state. He began as a friend and supporter of King Henry II, but their relationship soured as Becket's allegiance shifted towards the church's authority.

The Tensions Between Church and State

The friction between Henry II and Becket stemmed largely from Henry’s attempts to exert more control over the church. Becket, once a loyal chancellor to the king, devoted himself to church principles upon his elevation to archbishop. This change led to a series of disputes that culminated in Becket fleeing to France for six years, during which his defiance against the king grew stronger.

The Day Becket Was Murdered

The Fateful Decision by Henry II

In December 1170, frustrated by Becket’s return and continued opposition, King Henry II reportedly expressed his desire to rid himself of the troublesome archbishop. His vague comments were interpreted by four of his knights as a royal decree to eliminate Becket.

The Brutal Attack at Canterbury

On December 29, 1170, the knights found Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. In a savage attack, they murdered him in cold blood, shocking the religious community and the nation. Becket died at the altar, and his assassination ignited outrage, leading to his immediate veneration as a martyr.

Aftermath of Becket's Death

The Impact on Church-State Relations

Becket's assassination had profound repercussions. It forced Henry II to reconcile with the church, acknowledging the need for a balance of power. In 1173, Henry performed public penance at Becket’s shrine, marking a significant shift in church-state relations in medieval England.

Thomas Becket as a Saint

Within a few years after his death, Becket was canonized in 1173, becoming one of the most popular saints in medieval Europe. His story highlighted the struggle for religious autonomy, and his shrine in Canterbury Cathedral became a major pilgrimage site.

Fun Fact

The Legacy of Thomas Becket

Thomas Becket's legacy continues to influence modern discussions on the separation of church and state. His story has been depicted in numerous works of literature and drama, including T.S. Eliot's play "Murder in the Cathedral."

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Thomas Becket

For those interested in diving deeper into the life and times of Becket, consider reading "Thomas Becket: Warrior, Priest, Rebel" by John Guy or "The Murder of Thomas Becket" by G.W. Bowersock. These works provide an in-depth exploration of his life and the historical context surrounding his tragic death.