Herbert of Bosham facts for kids

Herbert of Bosham was an English writer who lived in the 1100s. He was a very important scholar in the household of Thomas Becket, a famous archbishop. Herbert wrote about Becket's life. We don't know exactly when Herbert was born or died, but he was active between 1162 and 1189.

Herbert's Early Life and Education

Herbert was probably born in a place called Bosham in Sussex, England. This is where he got his name.

He went to school in Paris, France, to study theology. Theology is the study of religious beliefs. His teacher was a famous scholar named Peter Lombard. Herbert helped bring Lombard's important book, Sentences, to England.

Working with Thomas Becket

Herbert likely joined Becket's team before 1162. When Becket became the Archbishop of Canterbury that year, he quickly gave Herbert an important job. Herbert was meant to advise Becket on his duties. He also helped Becket study the Bible.

Herbert stayed very close to Becket during many difficult years. This included a time when Becket was forced to live away from England. Herbert returned to England with Becket in December 1170. He stayed with him almost until the very end.

Just two days before Becket's death, Herbert was sent on a trip to the French king. He begged Becket to let him stay, as both felt something bad was about to happen. Herbert was one of Becket's strongest supporters against King Henry II of England. He was brave enough to speak directly to the king and take on dangerous tasks.

Writing About Becket

After Becket died, Herbert mostly lived in Europe. He didn't visit England again until about 1184. He felt a bit forgotten during this time. However, he did have a friendly meeting with the king himself. We don't know anything about Herbert after the year 1189.

Herbert of Bosham wrote a long book about Becket's life. It is called the Life of St. Thomas. While it's very detailed, other writers' accounts are sometimes seen as more historically accurate. Still, Herbert was an eyewitness to most of the events he wrote about. He was with Becket during tough times, like the trial at Northampton.

However, Herbert started writing his book in 1184. This was many years after the events happened. Because of this, some historians wonder how accurate his memories were. Besides the Life of St. Thomas, Herbert also wrote another long book called Liber Melorum. This book was also written to praise Thomas Becket.

Herbert in Movies

Herbert of Bosham has even appeared in movies! Actor Clive Currie played him in the 1924 silent film Becket. This movie was based on a play by Alfred Lord Tennyson with the same name.