Feologild

Feologild (died 832)

Feologild was a medieval English clergyman whose time associated with the Archbishopric of Canterbury is marked by significant historical uncertainty. While some records suggest he was elected and consecrated as Archbishop, this claim is debated among modern historians, who propose he may have been an unsuccessful contender for the office.

Life and Historical Context

Feologild's presence in the historical record dates back to 803 when he attended the Council of Clovesho, being listed as an abbot of a Kentish monastery. The context of the Archbishopric of Canterbury in the early 9th century was one of shifting political power. Following the reconciliation between Archbishop Wulfred and King Coenwulf of Mercia, the Kingdom of Wessex conquered Kent by 827, leading to a loss of influence for the archbishopric in secular affairs. Wulfred died in March 832, creating a vacancy at Canterbury.

According to the Handbook of British Chronology, Feologild was elected to the see of Canterbury in early 832 and possibly consecrated on June 9, 832. However, this information is qualified with a question mark, indicating scholarly doubt. Historian Nicholas Brooks suggests a disputed election, with Feologild being one of several candidates. The historian Simon Keynes posits that Suithred was another contestant, whom William Hunt argues might be identical with Feologild. Despite these debates, the Anglican Church lists Feologild as the 16th Archbishop of Canterbury.

Death and Succession

Feologild died on August 30, 832, a short time after his purported consecration. The uncertainty surrounding whether he was indeed consecrated further complicates his historical standing. His successor as Archbishop was Ceolnoth, who navigated the challenges of Viking invasions that began to affect Kent from 835 onwards.