Beat the Drum Ecclesiastic: Gilbert Sheldon and the Settlement of Anglican Orthodoxy

Gilbert Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury (1663-77) was at the helm during the time the Church of England sought to remake and redefine itself in the aftermath of not only the Civil Wars, Interregnum, but the Restoration Settlement as well. He aided in the preservation of a remnant of the Church of England, supported his king until his execution, and gained a high position in the Church upon its return, which gave him the opportunity to influence the Church to the present day.

This work seeks to highlight Sheldon’s role during this era, and illustrates his powerful influence upon the Church he tirelessly served. Sheldon has often been one figure often overlooked by history and this work seeks to correct that problem. It showcases the importance of his steady hand at the helm of the church in the 17th century that allowed the Church of England to recover and flourish in later centuries.

About the Author

Heather D. Thornton received her PhD from Louisiana State University in 2010. She is currently an associate professor with the Department of History at American Public University. This is her first book.