Thomas Edwardston facts for kids
Thomas Edwardston (died 1396) was a special kind of monk called an Augustinian friar. He was an important person in his time, known for his studies and for helping a famous duke.
Contents
Who Was Thomas Edwardston?
His Early Life and Studies
Thomas Edwardston was probably born in a place called Edwardston in Suffolk, England. This is where he got his last name! He went to the famous University of Oxford to study. There, he earned a very high degree called a D.D., which means Doctor of Divinity. This showed he was a very smart and learned person.
Becoming a Friar
After his studies, Thomas became a friar. Friars are like monks, but they often live and work among people in towns, not just in isolated monasteries. He joined the order of St. Augustine at the Clare Priory in his home county. He eventually became the leader, or "prior," of this monastery.
A Special Role: Confessor to a Duke
Thomas Edwardston had a very important job: he was the confessor to Lionel, duke of Clarence. A confessor is someone who listens to people's confessions and offers spiritual guidance. Lionel was a son of King Edward III, so this was a big deal! Thomas even traveled with Duke Lionel to Italy. They went there for the duke's wedding to the daughter of the Duke of Milan.
His Later Years and Writings
When Thomas came back to England, he took on some duties that were usually done by an archbishop. An archbishop is a very high-ranking church leader. We don't know exactly where he did this, but it was probably a temporary role. He wasn't a full archbishop himself.
Thomas Edwardston also wrote several books. These included Sermones Solemnes (which means "Formal Sermons"), Determinationes Theologicæ ("Theological Decisions"), and Lecturæ Scholasticæ ("Scholarly Lectures"). These writings show he was a deep thinker and teacher.
When Did He Die?
Thomas Edwardston passed away at Clare on May 20, 1396. He was buried in his monastery there.
