Bishop Morley of Winchester, 1598–1684: Politician, Benefactor, Pragmatist, by Andrew Thomson

Abstract

Born at the end of the Elizabethan era, George Morley played pivotal roles in the turbulent political and religious developments of the Restoration period. This book paints a detailed portrait of Morley’s life and deeds, from his early life, through his exile and subsequent career as dean of Christ Church Oxford, bishop of Worcester and bishop of Winchester, to his death and benefactions. The book’s subtitle, ‘Politician, Benefactor, Pragmatist’, encapsulates Andrew Thomson’s three main strands of inquiry. He focuses particularly on Morley’s involvement in debate about whether the re-established (Anglican) Church should pursue uniformity, comprehension or toleration. Some believed that doctrinal uniformity was the only way to regain control following the restoration of the bishops, while others felt that the best course was to compromise with, or even tolerate, other Protestant groups. Previous commentators have concluded that Morley was determined to enforce uniformity and quash dissent, whereas Thomson suggests that...