Canterbury
1920
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages, History - Religious, Travel Writing
Published in 1920, 'Canterbury' by Gordon Home is a historical account that delves into the significance of Canterbury, England, with a focus on its renowned cathedral. The book explores the city's medieval past, including pivotal events like the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in 1170, which established Canterbury as a major pilgrimage site in Europe. Home's narrative intertwines the city's ancient roots, religious traditions, and the pilgrimage culture, providing a vivid portrayal of Canterbury's architectural and cultural heritage.
About Canterbury
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- Describes Henry VIII's posthumous trial of Becket in 1538 and the end of medieval pilgrimages, while introducing modern pilgrims who continue to visit Canterbury. Recommends approaching the city on foot from Harbledown for the best view.
- 2
- Chronicles Canterbury's history from prehistoric times through Roman Durovernum, Saxon Christianization under Augustine and Ethelbert, Danish attacks, Norman Conquest, and culminates with Becket's murder and Henry II's penance.
- 3
- Provides a detailed architectural tour of Canterbury Cathedral, describing its Norman foundations, Gothic rebuilding after the 1174 fire, and the various chapels and monuments including Becket's shrine site and the Black Prince's tomb.
Key Themes
- Religious Authority vs. Secular Power
- The central conflict between church and state authority, exemplified by Becket's defiance of Henry II and his ultimate martyrdom for defending ecclesiastical rights.
- Pilgrimage and Devotion
- The transformation of Canterbury into a sacred destination where medieval pilgrims sought spiritual healing and redemption at Becket's shrine.
- Historical Continuity
- Canterbury's evolution from Roman Durovernum through Saxon Cantwarabyrig to medieval pilgrimage center, showing how each era built upon the last.
Characters
- Thomas Becket(protagonist)
- Archbishop of Canterbury who was murdered in 1170, becoming a martyr and saint. His death transformed Canterbury into Europe's most famous pilgrimage destination.
- Henry II(antagonist)
- King of England whose hasty words led to Becket's murder. Later performed severe penance at Canterbury in 1174.
- Augustine(major)
- First Archbishop of Canterbury who arrived in 597 to Christianize Saxon England. Founded the Christian Church's headquarters in England.
- Ethelbert(major)
- Saxon King of Kent who converted to Christianity and gave land for Augustine's mission. Ruled from Canterbury as his capital.
- Queen Bertha(major)
- Frankish Christian queen married to pagan King Ethelbert. Prepared the ground for Augustine's mission through her faith.
- Four Knights (Fitzurse, Tracy, Moreville, Bret)(antagonist)
- The murderers who killed Becket in Canterbury Cathedral after misinterpreting Henry II's angry words.
