Definition

Proper noun * Thomas à Becket: A historical figure, specifically an English archbishop. He served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his death in 1170. He is known for his conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church, which led to his murder by the king's knights. He was later canonized as a saint.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The conflict between King Henry II and Thomas à Becket is a famous chapter in English history.
  • Pilgrims traveled to Canterbury to visit the shrine of Thomas à Becket.
  • T.S. Eliot's play Murder in the Cathedral dramatizes the death of Thomas à Becket.

Advanced Usage

• "The martyrdom of Thomas à Becket": A common phrase referring to the circumstances and significance of his murder, which solidified his status as a martyr for the Church.
  • The martyrdom of Thomas à Becket shocked medieval Europe.
• "Becket controversy" or "Becket affair": Terms used to describe the prolonged political and religious dispute between the Archbishop and the King.
  • The Becket controversy centered on the issue of clerical immunity from secular courts.

Variants and Related Words

• Saint Thomas Becket: The title used after his canonization.
  • The feast day of Saint Thomas Becket is December 29.
• Becket: A common shortened form of the name used in historical and literary contexts.
  • The film Becket stars Richard Burton as the archbishop.

Synonyms

• Saint Thomas of Canterbury: An alternative name emphasizing his sainthood and seat of office.
• The Canterbury Martyr: A descriptive synonym highlighting the location and nature of his death.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?": A legendary utterance attributed to King Henry II, which his knights interpreted as a command to kill Becket. It is often cited as an example of indirect orders with grave consequences.
  • His angry remark, "Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?", led directly to Becket's murder.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 to 1170; murdered following his opposition to Henry II's attempts to control the clergy (1118-1170)