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Year 7 - History

Henry II's church reforms

England under Henry II: how successfully did Henry reassert royal authority?

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about England and the Angevin Empire under Henry II's rule. They then use their knowledge of Henry's rule to evaluate the degree to which he was a successful king.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain why Henry II came into conflict with the Church and how Henry's reforms reduced the power of the Church.

Key Notes

  • The power of the Church often brought it into conflict with the king's authority .
  • If they broke the law, the clergy were only required to attend the Church's own courts.
  • Henry II appointed Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, to help reform the Church.
  • Henry wanted to use the Constitutions of Clarendon to increase his control over the Church.
  • Becket argued with Henry and believed the Church should be free from the king's interference.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • clergy: the clergy are religious leaders, especially priests, ministers, etc.
  • spiritual: spiritual is relating to deep feelings and religious beliefs
  • archbishop: the chief bishop of a large region is known as the archbishop
  • bishop: a senior member of the Christian Church in charge of an area containing several churches is known as a bishop
  • exile: when you are sent away from your home country, you go into exile

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Medieval and modern Church power is equivalent.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

The power of the Church often brought it into conflict with the king's authority . If they broke the law, the clergy were only required to attend the Church's own courts.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'clergy'

the clergy are religious leaders, especially priests, ministers, etc.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: Medieval and modern Church power is equivalent. Correction: Explicitly outline the Church's organisational power: land ownership, clergy social status, and spiritual authority.

More Lessons In This Unit

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