The Register of William Bothe, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, 1447-1452

Newly edited register of William Bothe rehabilitates a much maligned figure.

William Bothe, bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, was the first bishop from a family that was to become a virtual episcopal dynasty, and one of the most vilified bishops of the fifteenth century. His register spans a short episcopate of only six years, but is nevertheless of great importance to the history of the see. It provides information about Bothe's episcopal officers, their backgrounds and careers, and about the details of life in the diocese at thistime. Moreover, it allows a reassessment of this bishop's administration, suggesting that his concern for his diocese and dedication to his work was greater than has been hitherto appreciated. An appendix gives full details of his itinerary.