Richard Bruerne facts for kids

Richard Bruerne (born around 1519, died 1565) was an important English churchman, a leader at a college, and a professor who taught the Hebrew language. He lived during a time of big changes in England, especially in religion and education.

Early Life and Education

Richard Bruerne was a student at Lincoln College, Oxford, which is a part of the famous University of Oxford. He also became a Fellow at Eton College, a well-known school. In 1547, he earned a special degree called a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.). This degree showed he had studied a lot about religion and theology.

Becoming a Professor

The very next year, in 1548, Richard Bruerne was chosen for a very important job: Regius Professor of Hebrew at the University of Oxford. This meant he was the main teacher of the Hebrew language at the university. Hebrew is an ancient language, important for studying the Bible.

While he was a professor, he was involved in some important events. For example, in 1551, he was a witness for Bishop Stephen Gardiner. He was also present at a big discussion, called a "disputation," with Thomas Cranmer in Oxford in 1554. These events were part of the religious changes happening in England at the time.

In 1553, he also became a "canon" at Christ Church, Oxford. A canon is a special position within a cathedral or church, often involving duties and responsibilities related to the church's administration.

Later Career and Challenges

In May 1557, Richard Bruerne became a canon at Windsor Castle, which is a very important royal residence. This was another significant role in the church.

Around this time, other people sometimes taught his Hebrew classes. He eventually left his position as Regius Professor of Hebrew before March 1559.

Provost of Eton College

In 1561, the leaders of Eton College chose Richard Bruerne to be their "Provost." A Provost is like the head or leader of the college. However, Queen Elizabeth I of England had to approve this choice, and she had some concerns about it.

Because of these concerns, Archbishop Matthew Parker was asked to visit Eton College and look into the election. Richard Bruerne at first didn't agree with this investigation, but he eventually decided to step down from the Provost position. He received £10 from the college as compensation.

Final Years

In 1562, Richard Bruerne tried to get another advanced degree, a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.), from Oxford, but he was not successful.

He passed away in April 1565 and was buried in St. George's Chapel, Windsor, which is a famous chapel inside Windsor Castle. At the time of his death, he was working as a receiver for Christ Church, managing some of their money.