Part Three: The Norman Church and Monasticism Flashcards
Why was the Church so important in Norman England?
Religion was a matter of life or death.
Religious leaders were as powerful as Kings.
The Pope was probably the most powerful individual in Europe.
There were outposts of the Christian religion everywhere.
Why was the Church so wealthy during this time?
Everyone had to pay a tax to the Church called a Tithe.
Villagers had to give one tenth of what they provided.
There were also other taxes paid throughout the year such as Easter Dues.
When people died they had to pay Surplice Fees to the priest.
What were the problems with the Church that William wanted to change when he became King of England?
There were a number of clergy who held more than one position.
Positions were also often given to relatives and friends rather than suitable candidates.
Many of the clergy were married which went against the traditional vow of celibacy.
What position did Lanfranc hold within the English Church?
Lanfranc was the Archbishop of Canterbury but he wanted to be recognised as the head of the Church in England
How did Lanfranc reform the Church in Norman England?
He established ‘Synods’.
Moved cathedrals to places with larger populations
Created a new Church hierarchy
Developed Parishes and the role of the Parish Priest.
Officially ended marriage amongst the clergy.
How did the Church courts differ from other courts? Why did this cause resentment?
Church courts were less severe that secular courts. People who faced hanging in secular courts may have to preform a pilgrimage or publicly confess to their crimes in church courts.
Led to some resentment, especially as members of the clergy were judged by church courts
How and why did William change churches and cathedral buildings in England during his reign?
Normans thought that many Anglo-Saxon religious beliefs were old-fashioned and preferred the grander style of Romanesque architecture.
Many wooden Perish Churches were also rebuilt in stone.
Why did William II come into conflict with the Church?
He was a powerful and effective ruler but was more interested in making money from the Church. They disapproved of his morals.
William never got married or had children and it’s almost certain that he was homosexual. His lifestyle and exploitation of the church led to conflict.
Why did William II argue with William St Calais?
St Calais informed the King of a rebellion and agreed to aid him but then changed his mind. Rufus trailed him for treason in the secular court where he lost his Bishopric and was exiled.
Why did William II argue with Archbishop Anselm?
- Anselm wasn’t enthusiastic about becoming Archbishop and didn’t want to submit to a King who showed little interest in the church and had questionable morals.
- He complained Rufus was leaving Bishoprics empty so that he could take income from the Church Lands.
The King did not welcome this and felt that Anselm should not get involved in his affairs.
As king, William II brought back the practice of ‘Simony’. What was this?
Simony was selling positions of power.
For example, Herbert Losinga paid £1000 to become Bishop of Thetford in 1091.
Why did William I argue with Pope Gregory II?
The Pope thought the Church had more authority that Kings and wanted direct control over teaching and discipline throughout the Church. He also demanded that William swear fealty.
Rufus agreed to bring back Peter’s Pence. He had been happy to help in Alexander’s reforms but he didn’t want the Pope to interfere with his rights as King.
Describe what life was like in a monastery in Norman England?
Monks and nuns promised to devote their whole life to God. Individuals withdrew from society and lived alone, fasting and meditating.
Some decided to set up communities where they could live apart from society and spend their lives concentrating on religion.
How did the Normans reform monasteries in England?
They increased the number of monks, nuns and religious houses. By 1135, 10 of England’s 19 cathedrals had a monastery attached.
William paid for the building of Battle Abbey.
What responsibilities did monasteries have with regards to healthcare and education in Norman England?
- They were the main providers of education.
- Latin was essential to priests and monks along with music, verse, astronomy and mathematics.
- Most monasteries had an infirmary, it was seen as part of their duty to care for the sick. The almonry was a place for poor to get food.
