Home
Membership
Thomas Becket: life of week

Thomas Becket: life of week

Michael Staunton charts the life of the so-called 'troublesome priest' who was brutally murdered in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170

Emily Briffett

Published: March 26, 2025 at 5:32 PM

Save

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Email to a friend

Thomas Becket is probably medieval England's most famous martyr and saint – yet the circumstances of his life are overshadowed by his infamous feud with King Henry II, and his shocking murder in Canterbury Cathedral one winter's evening in 1170. Emily Briffett speaks to historian and author Michael Staunton to chart how Becket rocketed to power from humble origins, before dramatically switching from close royal ally to the thorn in Henry II's side.

Michael Staunton is the author of Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025).

Buy it now from Amazon

Authors

Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra