Definition: St.
Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury, went to Canterbury from Rome in
597. He built the first cathedral at the site of St. Martin’s church, which he
was given by King Ethelbert and Queen Bertha of a local principality in Kent (“Cathedral
History”). In 1170, Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered inside the Cathedral
by knights of King Henry II after he refused to absolve bishops from their
offenses against the church. This site became a pilgrimage destination amongst
Christians.
Importance: Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales is
centered around this location. While the Canterbury Cathedral is part of the
frame narrative, it remains the final destination for the characters on their
pilgrimage. Although this story is fictional and somewhat of a cautionary tale,
it’s historical relevancy and accuracy allow for readers to join the pilgrims
on their journey to the death site of the martyr Thomas Becket, Archbishop of
Canterbury.
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