Treasures of the Bodleian

Oxford has been a home to scholars for over 800 years. This is the oldest document in the University Archives, issued in June 1214 to protect the university and its members after a violent episode of town/gown strife. Hangings in 1209 led to scholars fleeing Oxford for Paris, Reading, and Cambridge. Here the pope’s representative demands protections and reparations from the town, including fixed rents, reasonably priced food, and an annual dinner for 100 poor scholars.