Relations between Church and State: Henry II and his bishops;…

The idea

Following the disastrous murder of Thomas Becket, Henry II had to carefully rebuild relations between Church and State. His reconciliation with the Papacy was formalised at the Compromise of Avranches (1172), where he agreed to abolish 'evil customs' and permit appeals to Rome, though in practice he retained significant control over the English Church. Henry successfully managed his bishops by ensuring loyal royal clerks, such as Richard of Ilchester and Geoffrey Ridel, were elected to key bishoprics. This allowed him to maintain administrative efficiency and royal authority without provoking further papal interdicts. By balancing outward submission to Pope Alexander III with practical dominance over episcopal appointments, Henry stabilised his realm.

What earns the marks

• Analyse the terms of the Compromise of Avranches (1172) and how it facilitated Henry II's formal reconciliation with the Papacy.
• Evaluate the extent to which Henry II actually surrendered royal authority over the Church, noting his continued influence over episcopal elections.
• Explain the role of loyal bishops, often former royal clerks, in supporting Henry's administrative and legal reforms after the Becket crisis.
• Assess the diplomatic strategies Henry used to maintain a working relationship with Pope Alexander III while protecting Angevin interests.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Claiming that the Compromise of Avranches ended all royal control over the Church.

  Put it right: In reality, Henry continued to heavily influence the election of bishops and abbots.

• Assuming all bishops opposed Henry after Becket's death.

  Put it right by noting that many bishops were pragmatic royal administrators who supported the crown.

• Stating that appeals to Rome completely undermined royal justice.

  Put it right by explaining that Henry still managed to restrict appeals that directly threatened the crown.

Exam tips

• Contrast the theoretical concessions Henry made at Avranches with the practical reality of his continued dominance over the English episcopate.
• Use specific examples of loyal bishops, such as Richard of Ilchester, to demonstrate how Henry integrated the Church into his royal administration.
• Discuss how the broader European political context, including the Papal schism, influenced Pope Alexander III's willingness to reconcile with Henry.