Thomas Becket

Date of Birth: December 21, 1119

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: December 29, 1170

Biography

Thomas Becket, also known as Saint Thomas of Canterbury, was born in London, England, to a prosperous Norman family. He became one of the most significant figures in medieval England due to his conflict with King Henry II, which ultimately led to his martyrdom. Becket was educated in London and Paris, and he climbed the ranks in the church, serving as Archdeacon of Canterbury before becoming Lord Chancellor to King Henry II in 1155. In 1162, he was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, a role in which he became a staunch defender of the church’s rights against the monarchy. His staunch position led to serious friction with Henry II, culminating in Becket’s murder by four knights in 1170 in Canterbury Cathedral. Becket was canonized as a saint by Pope Alexander III in 1173, and his shrine in Canterbury became a significant pilgrimage site in medieval Europe.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas Becket

1. Thomas Becket was originally a close friend and confidant of King Henry II before their relationship soured over church-state conflicts.

2. He was known for his austere and pious lifestyle after becoming Archbishop of Canterbury, in stark contrast to his earlier life of luxury.

3. Becket’s martyrdom and subsequent canonization led to a surge in pilgrimage to Canterbury, immortalized in Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales.”

4. His death had a profound impact on the relationship between the church and the monarchy in England, leading to the eventual compromise known as the Constitutions of Clarendon.

5. The exact spot where Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral is marked by a commemorative plaque and a modern sculpture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas Becket

1. “All saints give testimony to the truth that without real effort, no one ever wins the crown.”

2. “Remember the sufferings of Christ, the storms that were weathered… the crown that came from those sufferings which gave new radiance to the faith.”

3. “For the name of Jesus and the protection of the Church, I am ready to embrace death.”

4. “The supreme king, the king of kings, has written a law, given a law for all the universe, which is the law of justice.”

5. “I am ready to die for my Lord, that in my blood the Church may obtain liberty and peace.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a clergyman and Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket did not amass personal wealth. His role and influence were significant, but they were not measured in monetary terms.