# Thomas Becket

> English archbishop and martyr, 1119/1120–1170

**Wikidata**: [Q192236](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q192236)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Becket)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/thomas-becket

## Summary
Thomas Becket was an English archbishop and martyr, serving as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his assassination in 1170. He is best known for his role as a prominent theologian and judge, shaping religious and legal discourse during his lifetime.

## Biography
- Born: 1118–1120 (exact date unknown)
- Nationality: English
- Education: University of Bologna (studied theology)
- Known for: Advancing theological scholarship and serving as a key judicial figure in medieval England
- Employer(s): Archbishop of Canterbury (1162–1170)
- Field(s): Theology, law, religious leadership

## Contributions
- **Theological Scholarship**: As a theologian, Becket contributed to religious discourse, though specific publications are not detailed in the source material.
- **Judicial Role**: Served as a judge, overseeing court proceedings, reflecting his role as both a religious and legal authority.
- **Archbishop of Canterbury**: Led the Canterbury archdiocese, a position of significant religious and political influence in medieval England.

## FAQs
**What was Thomas Becket's primary role?**
Thomas Becket served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his assassination in 1170, holding a position of religious and judicial authority in medieval England.

**Where did Thomas Becket study?**
Becket studied at the University of Bologna, where he pursued theological education.

**What fields did Thomas Becket work in?**
Becket worked in theology, law, and religious leadership, combining scholarly and judicial roles.

**Why is Thomas Becket notable?**
Becket is notable for his contributions to theological scholarship and his role as a judge, as well as his tragic assassination, which cemented his legacy as a martyr.

## Why They Matter
Thomas Becket's influence lies in his role as a theologian and judge, shaping religious and legal discourse in medieval England. His assassination by King Henry II made him a martyr, inspiring later Christian devotion and historical memory. His legacy endures in religious and cultural narratives, particularly in the Catholic Church, where he is venerated as a saint.

## Notable For
- Serving as Archbishop of Canterbury, a position of significant religious and political influence.
- Being assassinated in 1170, which elevated his status as a martyr in Christian tradition.
- Contributing to theological scholarship, though specific works are not detailed in the source material.
- Holding a dual role as both a religious leader and a judge, reflecting the intersection of law and faith in medieval society.

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Thomas Becket was born in England between 1118 and 1120, though the exact date is unknown. He studied theology at the University of Bologna, a prestigious institution at the time, where he engaged in scholarly pursuits.

### Career and Leadership
Becket served as a theologian, advancing religious discourse through his writings and teachings. He also held judicial roles, presiding over court proceedings, demonstrating his expertise in both law and theology. His most significant leadership position was as Archbishop of Canterbury, which he held from 1162 until his assassination in 1170.

### Religious and Political Influence
As Archbishop of Canterbury, Becket played a crucial role in the religious and political landscape of medieval England. His assassination by King Henry II in 1170 marked a turning point in his legacy, transforming him into a martyr and a symbol of Christian devotion.

### Legacy and Veneration
Becket's legacy endures in religious and cultural memory, particularly within the Catholic Church, where he is venerated as a saint. His assassination and subsequent martyrdom have made him a prominent figure in historical and theological narratives, influencing later generations of scholars and believers.

### Related Entities
Becket is associated with various religious and cultural entities, including the University of Bologna, where he studied, and the Catholic Church, where he served as a bishop and priest. His legacy is also connected to historical events and figures, such as King Henry II, whose actions shaped Becket's tragic end.

### Digital Presence and Recognition
Becket's digital presence includes numerous references across various platforms, reflecting his enduring influence in historical and religious discourse. His sitelink count of 68 on Wikipedia indicates widespread interest and recognition, highlighting his significance in academic and cultural contexts.

## References

1. Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
2. [Source](http://www.historyorb.com/people/thomas-becket)
3. [Source](http://www.oxforddnb.com/templates/article.jsp?articleid=27201&back=)
4. The Peerage
5. Integrated Authority File
6. [Source](https://www.tes.co.uk/teaching-resources/secondary-44354/history-45917/ks3-medieval-monarchs-45956/henry-ii-and-thomas-a-becket-45960/)
7. [Source](http://www.akg-images.co.uk/C.aspx?VP3=DirectSearch&KWID=2UMDEOQKZ_U)
8. Catholic-Hierarchy.org
9. [Source](http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/religion/8543395/Canterbury-Cathedral-a-lovers-guide.html)
10. JSTOR
11. [Source](http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/becket_thomas.shtml)
12. [Encyclopædia Britannica Online](http://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Thomas-Becket)
13. International Standard Name Identifier
14. [Source](http://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/2017/Dec.shtml)
15. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
16. Calendarium Romanum Generale (1969)
17. Virtual International Authority File
18. Czech National Authority Database
19. CONOR.SI
20. Autoritats UB
21. BBC Things
22. LIBRIS. 2012
23. Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands
24. HMML Authority File
25. performing-arts.ch