Arnulf of Lisieux facts for kids
Arnulf of Lisieux (born between 1104 and 1109 – died August 31, 1184) was an important French bishop during the Middle Ages. He was known for his traditional views during a time of great change and new ideas, often called the Renaissance of the 12th century. Arnulf helped build the beautiful Cathedral of Lisieux, which was one of the first buildings to show off Gothic architecture in Normandy, France. He also worked to put into practice the ideas of Bernard of Clairvaux, a famous religious leader.
Early Life and Education
Arnulf was born in Normandy, a region in France. He was the second son of Hardouin de Neuville. His older brother, Jean, who was the Bishop of Sées, helped educate him. Later, Arnulf traveled to Rome to study canon law, which are the laws and rules of the Christian Church.
Arnulf became known for writing a strong letter defending Pope Innocent II. This letter was against Gerard, the bishop of Angoulême, who supported a rival pope named Antipope Anacletus II. Arnulf then went to England. He served in the court of King Stephen during a difficult time known as The Anarchy, when there was a lot of fighting for the throne.
Becoming a Bishop
In 1141, Arnulf was chosen to become the Bishop of Lisieux. This was a very important position. He joined King Louis VII of France on a crusade in 1147. Crusades were religious wars fought to take back holy lands.
Arnulf was a loyal supporter of Pope Alexander III. He stood by the Pope during a split in the Church at the Council of Tours in 1163. He also encouraged other bishops to protect the Church's freedom against King Henry II of England.
Role in Politics and Later Life
Arnulf was an early supporter of Henry, who was then the Duke of Normandy. Henry was trying to become the King of England. Arnulf sided with King Henry in a big disagreement between the king and Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Arnulf tried to help solve the problem between them. However, his efforts to mediate ended up upsetting both the king and the archbishop.
After Thomas Becket's death, Arnulf spoke up to defend the king to the Pope. Around 1181, Arnulf lost the king's favor. He also briefly lost the support of Pope Lucius III. Because of his age and health, Arnulf decided to step down as bishop. He retired to the Abbey of St. Victor, Paris, a monastery in Paris, where he later passed away.
Arnulf was a talented writer. He collected many of his own letters, and these letters still exist today in 19 different copies. He also wrote some poetry.
Arnulf was the uncle of Hugh Nonant, who later became the Bishop of Coventry from 1185 to 1198.
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