The Influences Behind the Magna Carta and the Opposition to Divine Right of Kings in England

Historically, the people of England were far from having a say in major political or legal matters, such as the establishment of the Magna Carta or the concept of the Divine Right of Kings. This article delves into the cultural and historical factors that led to the support for the Magna Carta and the opposition to the Divine Right of Kings, shedding light on the struggles and dynamics of medieval English society.

The Social Hierarchy of Medieval England

The majority of medieval England's population were landless serfs, bound by oaths to local or regional lords, knights, or barons. These serfs were not slaves, but they were essentially tied to the land of their lord, with little freedom to move or change their status without permission. Life for serfs required frequent labor, often for military campaigns, and the lords provided some protection in return for loyalty and service.

It is important to note that women and their rights were essentially non-existent in medieval England, as they were treated as less than their male counterparts and had very limited legal or social standing.

The Magna Carta: A Misconceived Document

The Magna Carta, despite being widely praised by academic, political, and media figures, did not represent the rights of man or women. Rather, it was a document that defined the relationship between the king and his nobility, namely the lords, knights, and barons. The term "Freemen" refers to a sub-class within the nobility who were free to travel and live their own lives without being bound to any particular land.

The signing of the Magna Carta at Runnymede in 1215 between King John and his nobility was conducted by Stephen Langton, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Although Pope Innocent III played a role in ratifying the agreement, it became almost immediately ineffective. King John refused to honor the agreement, leading to the annulment by Pope Innocent III, and the Barons eventually went to war with the king.

The Political Implications

The Magna Carta reflected the ongoing conflict between the King and his nobility over the control and distribution of power. The concept of the Divine Right of Kings, which claimed that the king was ordained by God to rule with absolute authority, was contested by the Magna Carta, which sought to define and limit the king's authority. This issue was far from just a dispute in England and played a significant role in shaping European politics and warfare for centuries.

The Role of the Church and Popes

The relationship between the Church and Kings was complex and often contentious. Popes claimed absolute rule over everyone, including the kings, to whom the kings protested. However, the Popes reminded them that they held the keys to heaven, and thus, if kings rebelled, they would face severe consequences in the afterlife. This power dynamic influenced many kings, such as King Henry IV of Germany, who had to submit to the Pope by walking three months to Canossa Castle in Tuscany in 1077, where he stood outside for three days and nights in freezing conditions. This period of submission was seen as a humiliation, but it also highlighted the significant power the Church held over medieval rulers.

Conclusion

The Magna Carta and the opposition to the Divine Right of Kings were integral parts of the complex social and political dynamics that defined medieval England. The feudal system, the mistreatment of serfs, and the power struggles between the Church and the monarchy all contributed to the development of these important historical documents and concepts. Understanding these historical influences provides valuable context for today's political and social discussions, highlighting the evolution of democratic principles and the struggle for individual rights.