Robert Lychlade's Oxford Sermon of 1395

Abstract

In the mid-1390s, a group of Oxford scholars caused the authorities some concern because of their Lollard sympathies, and for propagating heretical teachings at the university. Among them was Robert Lychlade, singled out by name in the following royal directive to the chancellor of Oxford dated 18 July 1395: We have learned reliably that some sons of iniquity, without heed of their salvation, living and studying at this university, and above all Robert Lychlade, who is allowed to speak there contemptuously (prophane), have been publishing, communicating, and teaching for some time, in that university as well as other secret places, impious opinions and conclusions as well as detestable allegations that are in many ways contrary to the Catholic faith. They are said to have been sowing them like tares among the people, and they still intend to publish, communicate, and teach them in a way that is wrongful and worthy of condemnation, in order to hurt the Catholic faith and openly subvert the aforesaid university, unless they are held in check by the arm of our royal majesty…. We command you firmly to remove and expel all Lollards and others who live in the university and are openly suspected of heretical depravity, and especially the aforementioned Robert, if he, through examination or any other lawful means, should be found before you to be such as should be feared to taint the university, just as an ailing sheep taints the flock.