William of Wykeham

William of Wykeham
Jonas Magnus Lystad · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Name	William of Wykeham
Birth date	1320
Death date	1404
See	Diocese of Winchester

William of Wykeham was a prominent English clergyman, statesman, and educator who served as the Bishop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor of England. He was a close advisor to King Edward III and played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War, particularly during the Battle of Crécy and the Battle of Poitiers. Wykeham's influence extended to the University of Oxford, where he was a fellow of Merton College, Oxford and later founded New College, Oxford.

● Early Life and Education

William of Wykeham was born in 1320 in Wykeham, Hampshire, to a family of modest means. He received his early education at the New College School in Winchester, and later attended University of Oxford, where he studied at Merton College, Oxford and Queen's College, Oxford. During his time at Oxford, Wykeham was influenced by prominent scholars such as Richard FitzRalph and John Wycliffe. He also developed close relationships with notable figures, including Simon Islip, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster.

● Career

Wykeham's career began in the Diocese of Winchester, where he served as a cleric and later became the Archdeacon of Lincoln. He was also a member of the Council of King Edward III and played a key role in the English Reformation. Wykeham's diplomatic skills were utilized during the Treaty of Brétigny, where he negotiated with King John II of France and Charles V of France. He also worked closely with other prominent statesmen, including John of Gaunt and Geoffrey Chaucer.

● Bishop of Winchester

In 1367, Wykeham was appointed as the Bishop of Winchester, a position that granted him significant influence and power. As bishop, he was responsible for the Diocese of Winchester and played a key role in the Convocation of Canterbury. Wykeham also maintained close relationships with other prominent bishops, including Simon Sudbury and William Courtenay. He was a strong supporter of the Black Prince and worked closely with him during the Castilian Civil War.

● Founder of Winchester College and New

College One of Wykeham's most lasting legacies is the founding of Winchester College and New College, Oxford. Winchester College was established in 1382, with the goal of providing education to young men from the Diocese of Winchester. New College, Oxford was founded in 1379, with the aim of providing a center of learning for students from the University of Oxford. Wykeham's vision for these institutions was influenced by his relationships with other educators, including John Balliol and Robert Winchelsey.

● Later Life and Legacy

In his later years, Wykeham continued to play an active role in the Church of England and the English monarchy. He was a close advisor to King Richard II and worked closely with other prominent figures, including John of Lancaster and Henry Beaufort. Wykeham's legacy extends beyond his own lifetime, with his influence visible in the English Reformation and the development of Oxford University. He is also remembered for his role in the Hundred Years' War and his relationships with notable figures, including Philip II of France and Charles VI of France.

● Architectural Legacy

Wykeham's architectural legacy is evident in the design and construction of Winchester College and New College, Oxford. He was influenced by the Gothic architecture of the time, as seen in the Chapel of New College, Oxford and the Chapel of Winchester College. Wykeham's vision for these buildings was shaped by his relationships with other architects, including Henry Yevele and William of Ramsey. His legacy can also be seen in the design of other notable buildings, including the Chapel of King's College, Cambridge and the Chapel of Eton College. Wykeham's influence on English architecture is still visible today, with his designs continuing to inspire architects and historians, including those at the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Society of Antiquaries of London.