Question

Why did conflict arise between Henry 11 and Thomas Beckett

Answer 1

Conflict arose between Henry II and Thomas Becket primarily due to a power struggle between the king and the Archbishop of Canterbury. Becket was Henry's close friend and chancellor, but when he was appointed as Archbishop of Canterbury in 1162, he became more aligned with the church and its interests.

This brought Becket into direct conflict with Henry, as the king sought to increase his control over the church and reduce the power of the clergy. Becket, on the other hand, was a devout and zealous defender of the church's independence and authority.

The conflict between Henry and Becket escalated over issues such as the rights and privileges of the church, the authority of the king over the clergy, and the division of power between the secular and religious authorities. This ultimately led to Becket's excommunication and eventual assassination by followers of the king.

Overall, the conflict between Henry II and Thomas Becket was fueled by their opposing views on the balance of power between the monarchy and the church, as well as their individual ambitions and personalities.