Saint Anselm of Canterbury (c. 1033–1109), a prominent philosopher, theologian, monk, and archbishop, is known for his "ontological argument" for the existence of God and is considered a founder of scholasticism St. Anselm's famous theological motto is "fides quaerens intellectum," which translates to "faith seeking understanding," emphasizing the importance of both faith and reason in theological inquiry.

Like every true follower of Christ, Anselm had to carry his cross, especially in the form of opposition and conflict with those in political control. Though personally a mild and gentle man and a lover of peace, he would not back off from conflict and persecution when principles were at stake.