Thomas Hyde (Catholic exile) facts for kids
Thomas Hyde (born 1524, died 1597) was an English scholar, teacher, and priest. He was a Roman Catholic who had to leave England during a difficult time for people of his faith.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Hyde was born in Newbury, Berkshire, England. When he was 13 years old, in 1537, he became a student at Winchester College. This was a famous school.
After Winchester, he went to New College, Oxford. He became a "fellow" there in 1543. A fellow is like a senior member or teacher at the college. He earned his first university degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1545. He then earned a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1549.
In 1550, he left his position at New College. The next year, in 1551, he became the headmaster of Winchester College. This meant he was in charge of the school. He also became a "prebendary" at Winchester in 1556. This was a type of church official.
Life in Exile
Thomas Hyde was a very strong Roman Catholic. When Queen Elizabeth I became queen, things changed for Catholics in England. Because of his faith, Hyde had to leave his jobs. In 1561, he was even placed under the care of a high government official.
Because of these difficulties, he left England and went to live in other countries. He lived for several years in Leuven, which is now in Belgium. A respected Catholic leader named William Allen praised Hyde's advice and skills in a letter written in 1579.
Later, Thomas Hyde moved to Douai, a city in France. He lived there with a printer's widow. He passed away in Douai on May 9, 1597. He was buried in a special part of St. James's Church.
His Writings
Thomas Hyde's most important book was called A Consolatorie Epistle to the Afflicted Catholikes. This long title means "A comforting letter to suffering Catholics." The book was published in Louvain in 1579.
The book had two main messages:
- It told Catholics not to go to Protestant churches.
- It encouraged them to be patient and strong in their faith, even when facing difficulties.
A second edition of his book was printed in 1580. It included three woodcut pictures.
