Wiclif on Trial
by Ford Madox Brown
(English painter, 1821-1893)
IN 1377 John Wiclif, "the Morning Star of the
Reformation," was bidden by the authorities of the
Church to appear before the Convocation in St. Paul's,
London, and give an account of the new doctrines he was
teaching. He appeared in due season, but with an escort
that was hardly expected, for John, Duke of Gaunt, son
of the king, and in reality exerciser of the powers of
prime minister, was with him. Lord Percy, Earl-Marshal,
and a band of soldiers also accompanied him. The
"trial," so called, resolved itself into a violent
quarrel between the Bishop of London and the king's
son. This soon became a general riot, and to quiet the
disturbance Wiclif was allowed to retire to his church
at Lutterworth.
In the picture, Courtney, Bishop of London, sits on the
dais at the extreme right. At Wiclif's feet sit the
five friars who have been appointed as his counsel.
John of Gaunt, naked sword in hand, is apparently
snapping his fingers at the bishop, and making so
threatening a speech that his wife, the Princess
Constance, seizes him by the robe lest he turn his
sword against that dignitary. Chaucer, another friend
of the Duke's, sits in the background at the right with
inkstand and quill pen, quietly taking notes. Wiclif
stands before the bar. Lord Percy has just ordered a
stool to be brought for him. "An you must answer for
all these books, Doctor, you will need a soft seat," he
says; whereat the wrath of the bishop increases.
Wiclif, however, remains standing.
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