The philosophical rigor of the eleven-century monk Anselm of Canterbury originated not in a university, but within the Benedictine life at Bec Abbey in Normandy. Throughout his career, he bridged the gap between traditional monastic meditation and the emerging analytical traditions of medieval Latin theology, ultimately serving as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1093 until his death in 1109.
Monastic Development and Early Philosophy
Born in Aosta in 1033, Anselm crossed the Alps at twenty-three following his mother's death and his father's entry into a monastery. He arrived at Bec Abbey in 1059, drawn by the presence of Lanfranc. After serving as a novice under the direction of the archbishop of Rouen, he was elected prior in 1063. Upon the death of the founder Herluin in 1078, he became abbot, leading the institution to become a center of European learning.
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In 1093, Anselm assumed the position of Archbishop of Canterbury. His tenure was defined by the Investiture Controversy and direct conflict with the English kings William II and Henry I. These political disagreements resulted in two distinct periods of exile, from 1097 to 1100 and again between 1105 and 1107. During his time away from England, he participated in the Council of Bari, where he influenced the adoption of the Roman Rite among bishops in southern Italy.
Theological and Philosophical Contributions
Anselm composed a significant body of work in medieval Latin, including the Monologion and Proslogion, which explored the existence of God. His writing expanded to address complex questions of faith and morality in treatises such as Cur Deus homo, De casu diaboli, De veritate, and De similitudinibus. These texts, alongside his various meditationes and questions for a dying man, established a framework that earned him the title of Doctor of the Church.
Fast facts
- Born: 1033, Aosta
- Died: 1109, Canterbury
- Positions: Archbishop of Canterbury (1093-1109)
- Primary Residence: Bec Abbey
- Notable Works: Cur Deus homo, Proslogion, Monologion
- Canonization: Saint
- Burial Site: Canterbury Cathedral
Questions readers ask
What major roles did Anselm hold?
He was a Benedictine monk, abbot, theologian, philosopher, and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Where is Anselm buried?
He is buried at Canterbury Cathedral.
Achievements
- Notable work: Cur Deus homo
- Notable work: Monologion
- Notable work: Proslogion
- Notable work: De similitudinibus
- Fields: philosophy
