Robert II, Archbishop of Rouen facts for kids
Robert II was an important leader in Normandy a long time ago. He was the Archbishop of Rouen from 989 to 1037 and also the Count of Évreux. He was a very influential person in the church and government of Normandy. Robert was a trusted advisor to five different dukes of Normandy, helping them make important decisions.
Robert's Life and Work
Robert was the son of Richard I the Fearless. His mother was named Gunnora. He was the younger brother of Duke Richard II and the uncle of Duke Robert I. His father made him the Archbishop of Rouen around the year 989 or 990. At the same time, he was also given the title of Count of Évreux.
Robert was always involved in the politics of Normandy. He was a strong supporter of the dukes. His nephew, Richard III, had a difficult and short time as duke, lasting just over a year. When Richard III's brother, Robert I, became the new Duke of Normandy, Archbishop Robert faced many challenges helping him.
In 1028, Duke Robert I attacked Archbishop Robert and forced him to leave Normandy. The Duke also attacked Hugh d'Ivry, who was the Bishop of Bayeux, because he questioned the Duke's power. While in another country, Archbishop Robert took a serious step: he excommunicated his nephew, Duke Robert. This meant the Duke was cut off from the church. Robert also placed Normandy under an interdict, which stopped many church services.
Eventually, the Archbishop and the Duke reached an agreement. Archbishop Robert ended the excommunication and interdict. In return, Duke Robert gave the Archbishop back his church position, his countship of Évreux, and all his properties. The Duke also returned any church property that he or his followers had taken.
By 1033, Duke Robert was planning a big fight against his cousin, Alan III, Duke of Brittany. They had been attacking each other's lands. But Archbishop Robert, who was an uncle to both of them, helped them make peace.
In 1035, Duke Robert decided to go on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Before he left, he made his young son, William, his heir. He then asked Archbishop Robert to look after and protect his son. Duke Robert went on his journey and never returned to Normandy, dying on his way back home.
Archbishop Robert kept his promise. He ruled Normandy as a regent (someone who governs for a young ruler) for William until he died in 1037. When Robert passed away, it caused more problems and fighting in Normandy. Robert was a witness to at least fifteen important documents during his time. He influenced Norman politics for almost fifty years.
Robert's Family
Robert was married to a woman named Herlevea. They had several children together:
- Richard, who became the Count of Évreux. He died in 1067.
- Ralph de Gacé, who was the Sire de Gace. He married Basilla, the daughter of Gerard Flaitel. They had one son, Robert, who did not have any children. Basilla later married Hugh de Gournay.
- William d'Évreux, who married Hawise de Echauffour. She was the daughter of Giroie, Lord of Échauffour. William and Hawise had a daughter named Judith, who later married Roger I of Sicily.
- Herleva de Evereux, who married Gerard Flaitel.
See also
In Spanish: Roberto el Danés para niños
