In the biographical story, “Queen Eleanor” by Polly Schoyer Brooks, a quarrel arises and tears apart the well-bonded friendship and partnership between Eleanor’s second husband, King Henry of England, and his close companion, Thomas Becket, Chancellor of England. When the position of Archbishop of Canterbury becomes available, Henry, believing that his trusted advisor is worthy of the high-ranking career, appoints Becket the new Archbishop. Becket believes that his loyalty lie with the church prior to the king. This statement outrages Henry and the once close partners begin to quarrel. Becket’s judgement was correct because Henry just wanted the control of both the political and spiritual portions for bragging rights, political and spiritual power of the kingdom, laws would be changed, and conflict would arise. To begin, Henry just wanted the power of the political and spiritual portions of the kingdom. When Becket first became …show more content…
For instance, if Becket was not loyal to Henry, the inconsiderate King would most-likely hang or kill Becket. If the citizens of England discovered the death of the Archbishop, Henry would lose the respect and loyalty of his subjects. The text says, “Though Henry insisted that he had had no part in or desire for Becket’s death, not all believed him. He began to lose popularity and respect.” This shows that the well-known Archbishop’s death created chaos and disappointment throughout England. In addition, Becket would have to surrender his job as chancellor, leaving the country and king, without authority. The author stated, “But Henry thought it brilliant-he would use Becket in a double role as both chancellor and Archbishop.” This is evident that Becket would have had too many enterprises at once as both chancellor and archbishop. Overall, Becket was overwhelmed by the duties he was assigned, and created a drift between Henry and