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Walter d'Eynsham

Walter d'Eynsham was an Archbishop-elect of Canterbury who served as a monk at Christ Church Priory. Although chosen by his fellow monks in 1228, his appointment was ultimately overruled by King Henry III and Pope Gregory IX in 1229.

Key Facts

  • Walter D'Eynsham was a monk of Christ Church Priory in Canterbury.
  • He was chosen to be the Archbishop of Canterbury on August 3, 1228.
  • His appointment was over-ruled by King Henry III of England and Pope Gregory IX.
  • The overruling occurred on January 5, 1229.
  • He was examined on theological matters by a group of cardinals.
  • He was declared to have answered badly, making him ineligible for the office.
Full Name
Walter d'Eynsham
Notable Status

About Walter d'Eynsham

Walter d'Eynsham, also known by the variant name Walter de Hempsham, was a figure in medieval England who was elected as Archbishop of Canterbury but whose appointment was ultimately not confirmed. He was a monk belonging to the Christ Church Priory in Canterbury.

Election and Overruling

On August 3, 1228, Walter d'Eynsham was chosen by his fellow monks of the cathedral chapter to serve as the Archbishop of Canterbury. However, this selection was not final. His appointment was subsequently overruled by both King Henry III of England and Pope Gregory IX. This decision was formalized on January 5, 1229.

Reason for Ineligibility

The primary reason cited for Walter d'Eynsham's ineligibility was his performance during a theological examination. He was questioned by a group of cardinals regarding matters of theology. The report indicated that he had answered poorly, which provided the basis for Pope Gregory IX to declare him unfit for the office of Archbishop.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Walter d'Eynsham?

Walter d'Eynsham, also known as Walter de Hempsham, was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. He was a monk of Christ Church Priory in Canterbury before his election.

When was Walter d'Eynsham chosen as Archbishop of Canterbury?

Walter d'Eynsham was chosen to be the Archbishop of Canterbury on August 3, 1228, by his fellow monks of the cathedral chapter.

Why was Walter d'Eynsham's appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury overruled?

His appointment was over-ruled by King Henry III of England and Pope Gregory IX on January 5, 1229. He was examined by cardinals on theological matters and declared to have answered badly, making him ineligible.

What was Walter d'Eynsham's role within the Church before his election?

Before being chosen as Archbishop-elect, Walter d'Eynsham was a monk at Christ Church Priory in Canterbury.