Walter Reynolds
Walter Reynolds was a prominent figure in early 14th-century England, serving as Bishop of Worcester and later Archbishop of Canterbury. He held significant political power as Lord High Treasurer and Lord Chancellor, and was a close confidant of Edward II, whom he later opposed. Reynolds played a key role in the coronation of Edward III.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Bishop of Worcester (1308–1313) and Archbishop of Canterbury (1313–1327).
- ›Held the positions of Lord High Treasurer and Lord Chancellor of England.
- ›Was a favorite of Prince Edward (later Edward II) and served him in various capacities.
- ›Opposed Edward II in 1324 and supported Queen Isabella's rebellion.
- ›Crowned Edward III as king on February 1, 1327.
- ›Popularized the political argument 'vox populi, vox Dei' in a sermon against Edward II.
- Appointed Treasurer of England .
- Elected Bishop of Worcester and Consecrated .
- Named Keeper of the Great Seal and Lord Chancellor of England .
- Attempted Necessary Reforms As Archbishop of Canterbury.
- Continued the Struggle For Precedence Between the Archbishops of Canterbury and York.
- Laid London Under An Interdict In 1317.
- Declared For Edward Iii and Crowned Him King.
Archbishop, Lord High Treasurer, Lord Chancellor
About Walter Reynolds
Walter Reynolds: Archbishop of Canterbury and Royal Official
Walter Reynolds (died 1327) was a significant figure in early 14th-century English politics and church, serving as Bishop of Worcester and subsequently as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1313 until his death in 1327. His career was marked by a close association with the royal family, holding powerful secular positions such as Lord High Treasurer and Lord Chancellor.
Early Life and Career
Born the son of a baker from Windsor, Berkshire, Reynolds began his service as a clerk in the employ of Edward I. His acting skills reportedly aided his rise in favor with the Prince of Wales, who would become Edward II. Reynolds served as Keeper of the Great Wardrobe for the prince and was appointed Treasurer of England shortly after Edward II ascended to the throne in 1307. He was elected Bishop of Worcester in November 1307 and consecrated in October 1308. Further political appointments followed, including Keeper of the Great Seal and Lord Chancellor in 1310.
Episcopate and Political Turmoil
In 1313, Edward II secured his favorite's appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Robert Winchelsea. Enthroned in January 1314, Reynolds, despite a private life described as 'the reverse of exemplary,' attempted reforms within his archdiocese. He continued the long-standing dispute over precedence with the Archbishop of York, even placing London under interdict in 1317. Reynolds remained largely loyal to Edward II until 1324, when he joined his suffragans in opposing the king in defense of Adam Orleton, the Bishop of Hereford. He later supported Queen Isabella's rebellion against Edward II, sending her financial aid. Following the deposition of Edward II, Reynolds declared his allegiance to Edward III, whom he crowned on February 1, 1327, and was appointed to the regency council for the young king. In 1327, he famously popularized the political argument "vox populi, vox Dei" (the voice of the people is the voice of God) in a sermon criticizing Edward II.
Reynolds died at Mortlake on November 16, 1327.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Walter Reynolds' early career like?
Walter Reynolds began his career as a clerk or chaplain in the service of Edward I. He gained favor with the Prince of Wales, later Edward II, due to his acting skills and served as Keeper of the Great Wardrobe.
What significant political roles did Walter Reynolds hold?
Reynolds held several important political offices, including Treasurer of England, Keeper of the Great Seal, and Lord Chancellor of England. He also served on the regency council for Edward III.
What was Walter Reynolds' relationship with Edward II?
Reynolds was a prime favorite of Edward II and was appointed to high office by him. However, Reynolds later opposed Edward II in 1324, supported Queen Isabella's rebellion, and delivered a sermon against the king.
When did Walter Reynolds become Archbishop of Canterbury?
Edward II convinced Pope Clement V to appoint Walter Reynolds as Archbishop of Canterbury in May 1313 after the death of Robert Winchelsea. He was enthroned in January 1314.
What was Walter Reynolds' role in the coronation of Edward III?
After fleeing for safety and returning to London, Walter Reynolds declared for Edward III and crowned him as king on February 1, 1327. He was subsequently appointed to the regency council for the young king.
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