Edward Maltby: this episcopal superintendence- and views as bishop of Durham, 1836-1856

Abstract

A study of Edward Maltby's episcopal career as Bishop of Durham, 1836-I856, began with the Church Reform of I856.The main purpose of the reform was to ensure that the salaries of the bishops of the Church of England were made more equal, but the scale still ranged from £15,000 for the Archbishop of Canterbury to £4,500 for many of the less important sees. Research in Maltby's career, focused on his belief that education, especially religious education, was vital, both intrinsically and also if crime was to be erased. Although he spoke very rarely on political issues, his personal ideology was examined; however, more detail was possible regarding his views on the pastoral and social concerns of a bishop. One of the most outstanding characteristics of the man was his ability to extend the hand of friendship to all men alike, regardless of their religious faith. Nevertheless, it was apparent that he gave priority to the Church of England and deeply regretted any attack on its security. Many of his views and opinions resurfaced in the analysis shown in Chapter 7 on Maltby's charges, which were delivered in the years of his visitations. Because of his whiggery and his free association with Dissenters, opinion on Maltby was divided. Whilst some regarded him as a wonderful example of Christian charity, others insisted his liberalism went too far. The research contained in this thesis covers Maltby's period as Bishop of Durham until I856 when the controversial Bishops of London and Durham Retirement Bill was passed, specifically enabling Bishop Blomfield of London and Bishop Maltby to resign their sees, owing to advanced years and ill-health.