Who: Thomas Becket was assassinated on the 29th of December, 1170, in Canterbury Cathedral by four knights of Henry II. This was a major political blow for Henry II and would define his reign. Becket was canonised only a few years after his death and a large shrine was built. It was this shrine that many thousands of pilgrims visited, inspiring Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. Becket's memory has changed considerably since his martyrdom, including its destruction under Henry VIII.
What: An exhibition in the British Museum, including: reliquary caskets, pendants and a statue, all made to hold Thomas's relics; a whole 6m stained-glass window from Canterbury Cathedral; plenty of illuminated manuscripts; Magna Carta; a font from Sweden; and pilgrim badges.
When: Until the 22nd of August, 10:00–17:00 (M,T,W,T,S,S), 10:00-20:30 (F) — booking in advance is essential.
Where: The British Museum (Room 35, The Joseph Hotung Great Court Gallery).
Why: It is an expertly curated exhibition about Thomas Becket which focuses not only on Becket's life and death but also on his posthumous image. It is likely to be the only opportunity you will ever have to view the extraordinary miracle window from Canterbury Cathedral at eye level.
How: You can book tickets for the exhibition here: britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/thomas-becket-murder-and-making-saint. If you are unable to visit the exhibition (or you really enjoyed it), then you can buy the corresponding book (amazon.co.uk/dp/0714128384) or watch an extensive series of online events (youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHcErFdjbqlwyMUHGKwMarMOzK52GFFcI).
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