Tobias Matthew
Tobias Matthew was an influential Anglican bishop who served in various prominent positions at Oxford University and as Dean of Durham before becoming Archbishop of York. Appointed to many of his roles by Elizabeth I, he later received his archbishopric from James I. Matthew was known for his active enforcement of conformity to the Church of England among recusants in the north.
Key Facts
- ›Served as President of St John's College, Oxford (1572-1576).
- ›Held the position of Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University (1579-1583).
- ›Was Dean of Durham from 1583 to 1595.
- ›Appointed Archbishop of York in 1606 by James I.
- ›Active in enforcing conformity among recusants in the north of England.
- ›Published arguments against the Jesuit Edmund Campion.
President of St John's College, Oxford, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, Dean of Durham, Archbishop of York, Published Arguments Against Edmund Campion
About Tobias Matthew
Tobias Matthew: Archbishop of York
Tobias Matthew (1546–1628) was a prominent Anglican bishop who held a series of significant ecclesiastical and academic positions before ultimately serving as the Archbishop of York. His career was notably shaped by the favour of Queen Elizabeth I, who appointed him to several key roles, including President of St John's College, Oxford, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, and Dean of Durham. Following Elizabeth's reign, her successor, James I, appointed Matthew as the Archbishop of York in 1606.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Bristol on June 13, 1546, Tobias Matthew was the son of Sir John Matthew. He received his education at Wells and then at Oxford University, where he earned his BA in 1564 and MA in 1566. His association with the University of Oxford was extensive, serving as public orator in 1569, President of St John's College from 1572 to 1576, Dean of Christ Church in 1576, and Vice-Chancellor from 1579 to 1583. His tenure as Dean of Durham spanned from 1583 to 1595, preceding his consecration as Bishop of Durham in the latter year. All these appointments were bestowed upon him by Elizabeth I, highlighting her trust in his capabilities.
Major Contributions and Activities
As Archbishop of York, Matthew was characterized by his active role in enforcing religious conformity in the northern parts of England. He was particularly diligent in his efforts to bring recusants into compliance with the Church of England, undertaking extensive preaching tours and thorough visitations of his diocese. In 1581, he engaged in a notable controversy with the Jesuit Edmund Campion, publishing his arguments against Campion's position in 1638. During his later years, Matthew experienced some opposition to the administration of King James I and was excused from parliamentary attendance in 1625 due to his age and infirmities.
Personal Life and Legacy
Tobias Matthew married Frances, the daughter of William Barlow, Bishop of Chichester. They had a son, Tobie Matthew, who later converted to Roman Catholicism. Matthew's personal fortune was left to his wife, Frances, rather than his sons or the church. Among his possessions were a substantial library of 600 books, valued at £300 at the time, which Frances later bequeathed to York Minster, forming the basis of the library now housed at Old Palace, York. Frances, his wife for over fifty years, died the year after him and was also buried in York Minster's Lady Chapel. Tobias Matthew died at Cawood on March 29, 1628, and was interred in the Lady Chapel of York Minster.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tobias Matthew born and when did he die?
Tobias Matthew was born on June 13, 1546, and he died on March 29, 1628, at the age of 81.
What were Tobias Matthew's key roles before becoming Archbishop of York?
Before his appointment as Archbishop of York, Tobias Matthew held significant positions including President of St John's College, Oxford, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, and Dean of Durham.
Who appointed Tobias Matthew to his various positions?
Many of Tobias Matthew's early appointments, such as President of St John's College, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, and Dean of Durham, were made by Queen Elizabeth I. He was later appointed Archbishop of York by King James I.
What was Tobias Matthew's stance on recusants?
While serving in the north, Tobias Matthew was actively involved in forcing recusants to conform to the Church of England. He achieved this through preaching numerous sermons and conducting thorough visitations.
Where was Tobias Matthew buried?
Tobias Matthew died at Cawood and was buried in the Lady Chapel of York Minster.
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