Canterbury in the Age of the Magna Carta

2015 marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of one of the world’s greatest agreements, the Magna Carta. On the 15th June 1215, on the banks of the River Thames, the Magna Carta was sealed under oath by King John. It was the first document imposed upon a King of England by a group of his subjects, the feudal barons, in an attempt to limit his powers by law and to protect their rights. The charter is widely regarded as an important part of the protracted historical process which led to the rule of constitutional law in England and beyond. As the core of religious life in England, Canterbury played a significant part in the making of this historical document. Eight years prior to its signing Stephen Langton ascended to the position of Archbishop of Canterbury and soon became an implacable opponent of King John. Langton joined with rebellious barons and other bishops to limit royal powers, bringing Church-state tensions to a head. This led directly to the showdown that produced the Magna Carta. Langton’s input to the charter is emphasised by the final clause, which protects the freedom, rights and liberties of the English Church. To celebrate the anniversary of this momentous occasion, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge will be opening a new exhibition “Canterbury in the Age of the Magna Carta”, which will run from 6 June to 6 September 2015. The exhibition will focus on Canterbury residents stories and lives during the age of Magna Carta and will include the Canterbury Cathedral copy of an original Magna Carta transcribed into the Priory register.

Suitable for
Any age

Admission
Free

Website
http://www.canterbury.co.uk/Beaney/whats_on/Canterbury-in-the-Age-of-the-Magna-Carta.aspx

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk//se000216?id=EVENT513809