Thomas of Corbridge
Thomas of Corbridge served as Archbishop of York from 1299 to 1304. Though elected by the chapter, his appointment was confirmed by Pope Boniface VIII. His tenure was marked by a commitment to visiting his diocese and a significant conflict with King Edward I, which some chroniclers believed contributed to his death.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of York from 1299 to 1304.
- ›His election was set aside by Pope Boniface VIII, who then provided him to the see.
- ›Was consecrated by Pope Boniface VIII on February 28, 1300.
- ›Died on September 22, 1304, shortly after being admonished by King Edward I.
- ›Was buried in Southwell Minster.
- ›Dedicated himself to visiting his diocese during his four and a half years as archbishop.
- Visited His Diocese Extensively During His Tenure.
About Thomas of Corbridge
Thomas of Corbridge was the Archbishop of York from 1299 until his death in 1304. His tenure, though relatively short, was significant due to his papal consecration and his interactions with the Crown.
Life and Historical Context
Details about Thomas of Corbridge's ancestry are uncertain, with some sources suggesting his grandfather was involved in the construction of York Minster, while others state nothing is known. He likely originated from Corbridge in Northumberland. Before becoming archbishop, he was a canon of York and held the prebend of Osbaldwick. He was a Doctor of Theology, likely from Oxford University. His early career included serving as Chancellor of York, though he faced obstacles and even excommunication before eventually gaining control of a chapel position.
Archdiocesan Tenure
Thomas was elected Archbishop of York on November 12, 1299. Upon traveling to Rome for confirmation, Pope Boniface VIII annulled the election and instead provided Thomas directly to the see, consecrating him on February 28, 1300. He received the temporalities of the archdiocese on April 30, 1300. During his four and a half years as archbishop, Thomas was dedicated to his pastoral duties, reportedly never leaving his diocese except for parliamentary duties due to his commitment to visiting and overseeing his diocese.
Death and Legacy
Thomas of Corbridge died on September 22, 1304, in Laneham, Nottinghamshire. His death occurred shortly after he had been reprimanded and punished by King Edward I for not appointing the king's nominee to a clerical post that also had a papal nominee. The chronicler Walter of Guisborough speculated that the king's treatment so distressed the archbishop that it led to his fatal illness. Thomas of Corbridge was buried in Southwell Minster.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Thomas of Corbridge Archbishop of York?
Thomas of Corbridge served as Archbishop of York between 1299 and 1304. He was elected on November 12, 1299, and died in September 1304.
How did Thomas of Corbridge become Archbishop of York?
Thomas of Corbridge was elected archbishop on November 12, 1299. However, his election was set aside by Pope Boniface VIII, who then promptly provided him to the see and consecrated him himself on February 28, 1300.
Where did Thomas of Corbridge die?
Thomas of Corbridge died on September 22, 1304, at Laneham in Nottinghamshire. Some sources suggest that the stress from being admonished and punished by King Edward I contributed to his illness and death.
Where is Thomas of Corbridge buried?
Thomas of Corbridge was buried in Southwell Minster. He served as Archbishop of York for four and a half years, during which he was noted for diligently visiting his diocese.
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