Roger de Pont L'Évêque
York·12th century·France·Anglican (Church of England)
Roger de Pont L'Évêque served as Archbishop of York from 1154 to 1181. Born in Normandy, he played a significant role in the disputes between King Henry II and Thomas Becket, notably presiding over the coronation of the king's son. He also oversaw the rebuilding of York Minster after a fire.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of York from 1154 to 1181.
- ›Preceded Thomas Becket as Archdeacon of Canterbury.
- ›Presided over the coronation of Henry the Young King in 1170, a function that led to his excommunication by Becket.
- ›Rebuilt York Minster after it was damaged by fire.
- ›Was suspended by the pope for his supposed role in Becket's death but was later restored.
- ›The see of York remained vacant for several years after his death.
- Rebuilt York Minster
- Secured Papal Permission For Archbishops of York To Carry Their Cross In Front of Them Anywhere In England
- Patronage of the Legal Scholar Vacarius, Who Introduced Roman Civil Law Into England
About Roger de Pont L'Évêque
Roger de Pont L'Évêque (born c. 1115, died 1181) was a prominent figure in the English church, serving as Archbishop of York from 1154 to 1181. Born in Normandy, his early career saw him serve under Archbishop Theobald of Bec, where he held the position of Archdeacon of Canterbury, preceding Thomas Becket in that role. During his tenure as Archbishop of York, Roger initiated the significant rebuilding of York Minster, which had suffered damage from fire.
Life and Historical Context
Roger was born around 1115 in Pont-l'Évêque, Normandy. He was a clerk in the service of Archbishop Theobald before becoming Archdeacon of Canterbury. His early career was marked by an alleged scandal involving a homosexual relationship, which he was purportedly cleared of after bribery, according to John of Salisbury, though historian Frank Barlow suggests this account may have been motivated by a desire to defame Roger. Roger also made influential friendships with Gilbert Foliot and Hugh de Puiset.
Archbishop of York
Upon his consecration as Archbishop of York on October 10, 1154, Roger brought the legal scholar Vacarius to the north, who played a role in introducing Roman civil law to England under Roger's patronage. Roger was appointed a papal legate in 1164, with influence over Scotland but not Canterbury. He actively engaged in church politics, leading a deputation to the papal court to influence decisions regarding Becket and securing a temporary privilege for York archbishops to carry crosses within England.
Controversy with Becket
Roger became deeply involved in the conflict between King Henry II and Thomas Becket. In 1170, Henry II insisted that Roger preside over the coronation of his son, Henry the Young King, a role traditionally held by the Archbishop of Canterbury. This act led Becket to excommunicate Roger in late 1170. Following Becket's murder, Roger was suspended by the pope due to his alleged involvement but was reinstated in late 1171.
Death and Legacy
Roger de Pont L'Évêque died on November 26, 1181. After his death, King Henry II declared his will invalid and confiscated much of his wealth. The archiepiscopal see of York remained vacant until 1189, following Roger's death.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Roger de Pont L'Évêque become Archbishop of York?
Roger de Pont L'Évêque became Archbishop of York in 1154. He was consecrated on October 10, 1154, and served in this role until his death in 1181.
What was Roger de Pont L'Évêque's relationship with Thomas Becket?
Roger de Pont L'Évêque preceded Thomas Becket as Archdeacon of Canterbury and served under Archbishop Theobald of Bec with Becket. While they served together, there are accounts of Roger disliking Becket. Their relationship became contentious when Roger presided over the coronation of the king's son, leading to Becket excommunicating Roger.
What significant rebuilding project did Roger de Pont L'Évêque undertake?
Roger de Pont L'Évêque is known for rebuilding York Minster, which had been damaged by fire in 1137. He also built the Archbishop's Palace in York and contributed to the building of a church at Ripon.
What controversy involved Roger de Pont L'Évêque and King Henry II?
Roger de Pont L'Évêque became involved in controversy with King Henry II when he was asked to preside over the coronation of the king's son, Henry the Young King. This action usurped the traditional role of the Archbishop of Canterbury and led to Becket excommunicating Roger, which in turn is seen by some as contributing to Henry's anger towards Becket.
What happened to Roger de Pont L'Évêque after Becket's death?
After being implicated in Becket's death, Roger de Pont L'Évêque was suspended from office by the pope. However, he was eventually restored to his position in late 1171 and continued as Archbishop of York until his death in 1181.
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