The church of England in the reign pf Henry VII was riddled by abuses - validity

Introduction

1. Church always been riddled with abuses due to the power it holds

2. Continues through Henry VIII’s reign

3. Give judgement

Agree

1. Too much of a political role - priests involved in politics - gave them a higher status - anticlericals hated this

2. Increase in humanists (historical/structural development of ancient languages, did id not deny/challenge religion, believed Christian religion would be re-affirmed and strengthened until reformation hardened attitudes)

3. Criticisms of priests/friars - priests (pluralism - holding more than one position) - friars (charity or greed)

4. Monks were not completely living religious lives (wives/children) - but more came to light in Henry VIII reign during the inspections by Cromwell

Disagree

1. Social role - still played an important part in peoples lives - charity, festivals, education (humanist teachings - Christ was a model; education helps men live a good life)

2. Henry VII and Pope “liked” each other (granted Pope with papal bull)—Henry was happy with Pope as leader

3. No drive for new ideas - Protestantism didn’t have a lot of support and was not majorly driven

4. Most, if not all, people were Catholic - not many conflicting ideas to drive a reformation or civil war

Conclusion

1. Yes, riddled with abuses

2. Provide balanced reasoning