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Thomas Becket and His World
Series: Medieval Lives
Brief Description
This book explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral elevated him to England's most celebrated saint....
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Thomas Becket and His World
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See moreThe controversial, turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket.
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Description
This book explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages.
From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from his own words and those of his contemporaries.
Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, 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, conflict and achievement. The book is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about a pivotal figure in medieval history.
'In this beautifully fluent new biography, Michael Staunton brings out the challenges and contradictions running through the controversial life and death of Thomas Becket... Blending smart storytelling with clever nuance, this is a genuine pleasure to read.' —Jonathan Phillips, author of The Life and Legend of the Sultan Saladin
Series: Medieval Lives
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Thomas Becket and His World
This book explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from his own words...Hardback$6200Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 2-3 weeks -
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Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781836390701
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 01 March 2025
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Illustration: 29 illustrations, 24 in colour
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 138.0mm
Height: 216.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 208
About the Author
Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin and an internationally recognised expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017).
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