Question

During the Middle Ages there was a constant struggle for superiority between the __________ and the __________.

• A. Crown, Church
• B. Rich, Poor
• C. Soldiers, Clergyman
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A Crown, Church

The clergy claimed to be subject not to the king's (Roman) law but canon law. The Church had its law courts and procedures, which were codified during the later 12th century. The clergy became increasingly specialised in Church law and two popes, in particular, Alexander III and Innocent III, were experts in canon law. The big dispute between Becket and Henry II centered upon clerical immunity from secular trial and punishment. This was resolved in favor of clerical immunity after Becket's murder. Church courts usually gave out easier punishments to churchmen who had done wrong and kings believed this undermined their authority. Hence, Option A is correct. Among the rest, the rich dominated the poor due to wealth and were superior. The soldiers obeyed the clergymen out of fear of God and punishment. Hence, these are incorrect.