New Books in Critical Theory Michael Staunton, "Thomas Becket and His World" (Reaktion Books, 2025)
Dec 10, 2025
Michael Staunton, Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin and an expert on Thomas Becket, dives deep into Becket's tumultuous life and legacy. He discusses how Becket's rise from a merchant's son to archbishop played out against the backdrop of 12th-century England's transformations. The personal and institutional conflicts with King Henry II illuminate their contentious relationship. Staunton explores Becket's dramatic exile and martyrdom, revealing the international ramifications of his story and why his legacy continues to captivate historical discourse.
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Becket As A Window On The 12th Century
- Thomas Becket's life illuminates the rapid social, legal and intellectual changes of the 12th century.
- Michael Staunton argues Becket is best understood as a product of this fast-changing world, not just a lone martyr.
Partisan Sources, But Cross-Checkable Evidence
- Medieval biographies were openly partisan and aimed to persuade rather than be 'objective'.
- Staunton says the volume and variety of Becket sources let historians cross-check claims despite partisanship.
Personality Meets Institutional Rivalry
- The Becket–Henry clash mixed personal breakdown with structural conflicts over royal and papal power.
- Staunton emphasizes both personalities and expanding institutions made a violent rupture likely.
