Thomas Becket and His World

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.

About the author

Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017).

Summary

The controversial, turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket.

Product details

• Authors: Michael Staunton, Staunton Michael
• Publisher: Reaktion Books
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 22.04.2025
• EAN: 9781836390701
• ISBN: 978-1-83639-070-1
• No. of pages: 208
• Series: Medieval Lives
• Subjects: Fiction > Narrative literature > Letters, diaries; Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Biographies, autobiographies; European History, HISTORY / Europe / General, RELIGION / History, History of Religion, Biography: religious & spiritual, Biography: religious and spiritual