Theodore and Hadrian develop learning at Canterbury
About this date: 669 marks Theodore's arrival and the beginning of the activity described. Teaching and ecclesiastical visits continue over subsequent years.
Bede describes Theodore and Hadrian teaching Scripture and other subjects to pupils in England. Greek and Latin learning accompany efforts to organize church life.
Historical context
A bishop from Tarsus and an abbot of North African origin bring Mediterranean intellectual connections to Canterbury. The school illustrates movement of people as well as books.
Key points
- Bede names study of poetry, astronomy, and computation.
- Language learning supports scriptural education.
- Theodore's visits connect teaching with episcopal oversight.
People
- Theodore of Tarsus
- Hadrian of Canterbury
Sources and further reading
- Ecclesiastical History: Theodore and Hadrian
Visitation, scriptural learning, Greek, Latin, and the liberal studies. - Theodore and Hadrian's origins and journey
Biographical origins and the route to England.