Norman Conquest Series: Anglo-Saxon Religion

Introduction

• Focus: Anglo-Saxon religion and the strength of the Anglo-Saxon Church
• Previous video: Anglo-Saxon society and identity

Artifacts and Religion

• Gospel Book of Countess Judith:
  • Covered in gold and jewels
  • Depiction of Christ
  • Significance: Importance of religion in Anglo-Saxon society

Characteristics of the Anglo-Saxon Church

• Catholicism in England:
  • Blended European Catholicism with Celtic ideas from Ireland
  • Different from the rest of European Catholicism
• Language:
  • English language used in parts of religious services despite papal prohibition

Beliefs and Practices

• Some sermons criticized sinful behaviors and pagan beliefs (spells, witchcraft)
• Evidence of pagan beliefs:
  • Belief in elves, goblins, witches, and magic
  • Magical rings with spells

Key Figures

• Saint Dunstan:
  • Archbishop of Canterbury from 960 AD
  • Aimed to end church corruption and improve monastic education
  • Rebuilt churches and monasteries
• King Edward the Confessor:
  • Last Anglo-Saxon king with strong religious beliefs
  • Influenced by Norman religious views
  • Attempted to strengthen English church, but opposed by earls
• Stigand:
  • Last Anglo-Saxon Archbishop of Canterbury
  • Not deeply religious, considered corrupt
  • Sold church positions and defied the Pope
  • Allowed poorly educated priests to marry

Distinctive Features of the Anglo-Saxon Church

• Worship often conducted around large stone crosses instead of inside permanent buildings
• Numerous local saints, contrary to papal authority
  • Example: St. Werburg's in Bristol

Conclusion

• Anglo-Saxon Church was religious but had unique and odd practices
• Different from European church standards
• Corruption and unorthodox practices suggest weaknesses
• Key takeaway: Mixed strength with notable peculiarities and corruption