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 Indifferent toward
religion as a young man, Anselm became one of the Church's greatest
theologians and leaders. He received the title "Father of Scholasticism" for
his attempt to analyze and illumine the truths of faith through the aid of
reason.
At 15, Anselm wanted to enter a monastery, but was refused acceptance
because of his father's opposition. Twelve years later, after careless
disinterest in religion and years of worldly living, he finally fulfilled
his desire to be a monk. He entered the monastery of Bec in Normandy, three
years later was elected prior and 15 years later was unanimously chosen
abbot.
Considered an original and independent thinker, Anselm was admired for his
patience, gentleness and teaching skill. Under his leadership, the abbey of
Bec became a monastic school, influential in philosophical and theological
studies.
During these years, at the community's request, Anselm began publishing his
theological works, comparable to those of St. Augustine. His best-known work
is the book Cur Deus Homo ("Why God Became Man").
At 60, against his will, Anselm was appointed archbishop of Canterbury in
1093. His appointment was opposed at first by England's King William Rufus
and later accepted. Rufus persistently refused to cooperate with efforts to
reform the Church.
Anselm finally went into voluntary exile until Rufus died in 1100. He was
then recalled to England by Rufus's brother and successor, Henry I.
Disagreeing fearlessly with Henry over the king's insistence on investing
England's bishops, Anselm spent another three years in exile in Rome.
His care and concern extended to the very poorest people; he opposed the
slave trade. Anselm obtained from the national council at Westminster the
passage of a resolution prohibiting the sale of human beings.
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