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Thomas Becket and His World (Medieval Lives)
by: Michael Staunton (Author)
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Publication Date: 2025-04-22
Language: English
Print Length: 216 pages
ISBN-10: 183639070X
ISBN-13: 9781836390701
Book Description
A life of England’s most famous martyr, rooted in the currents of twelfth-century Europe. This book explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures in the Middle Ages: a London merchant’s son turned royal chancellor, an archbishop of Canterbury turned martyred saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket’s complex and contested legacy, drawing from the bishop’s writings as well as those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive research, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket’s life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe—a time of rapid change and conflict. The book is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about a pivotal figure in medieval history.
Editorial Reviews
A life of England’s most famous martyr, rooted in the currents of twelfth-century Europe. This book explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures in the Middle Ages: a London merchant’s son turned royal chancellor, an archbishop of Canterbury turned martyred saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket’s complex and contested legacy, drawing from the bishop’s writings as well as those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive research, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket’s life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe—a time of rapid change and conflict. The book is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about a pivotal figure in medieval history.
