Robert Burnell

Robert Burnell: Lord Chancellor and Bishop of Bath and Wells

Robert Burnell (c. 1239 – 25 October 1292) was a significant English bishop and statesman who served as Lord Chancellor of England from 1274 until his death in 1292, during the reign of King Edward I. A native of Shropshire, Burnell rose through royal service, eventually becoming a close advisor to Prince Edward, who later became King Edward I.

Life and Historical Context

Born around 1239, Burnell's family had given its name to Acton Burnell in Shropshire. He began his career as a clerk in the royal chancery before entering the service of Prince Edward. By 1257, he was spending most of his time with the prince's household. Following Simon de Montfort's victory at the Battle of Lewes in 1264, Burnell continued to serve Edward, being named the prince's clerk in December 1264. He was rewarded with a prebend in the diocese of York before 1267 and became Archdeacon of York in December 1270. Burnell also served as chancellor to Edward from the Battle of Evesham in 1265 until 1270.

When Prince Edward went on the Eighth Crusade in 1270, Burnell remained in England to secure the prince's interests and served as regent after the death of King Henry III while Edward was still abroad. He gained valuable experience governing England during this period, which historians suggest contributed to his dominance in English government after Edward's return.

Major Contributions

Burnell's most impactful role was as Lord Chancellor. He was instrumental in the legislative and legal reforms of Edward I's reign, with many of the king's major legislative acts occurring during Burnell's tenure. He played a key role in enforcing royal writs and enactments, including the Statutes of Westminster (1275, 1285, 1290), which addressed issues such as the usurpation of royal rights and the extension of royal jurisdiction. Burnell also championed the Quo warranto procedures, which asserted royal authority over the rights and powers exercised by subjects.

During his chancellorship, the Chancery's operations were centralized in London. Burnell also undertook diplomatic missions for Edward I, including to France and Scotland, and for a period, he helped administer Gascony, showing sensitivity to local desires for independence.

Church Career

Burnell was twice elected Archbishop of Canterbury. The first attempt in 1270 was thwarted by the Canterbury cathedral chapter and ultimately by Pope Gregory X. A second election in 1278 was quashed by Pope Nicholas III, who instead appointed John Peckham. These failures were likely due to Burnell's personal life, which included a long-term mistress and rumoured children. Edward I made a final attempt in 1280 to secure a wealthier see for Burnell by nominating him for Bishop of Winchester, but this election was also quashed.

Burnell was eventually elected Bishop of Bath and Wells on 23 January 1275. He received the temporalities on 19 March 1275 and was consecrated on 7 April 1275. As bishop, he oversaw the building of a wall around Wells Cathedral for security and attended to diocesan affairs annually at Lent.

Legacy

Robert Burnell died on 25 October 1292 in Berwick. He amassed considerable wealth and estates, owning 82 manors at his death. He continued to enjoy King Edward I's trust until his death. One historian has suggested that Burnell may have been the most important royal official of the 13th century due to his extensive involvement in both domestic and foreign affairs.