celibacy and liberate churches from the influence of nobles but this provoked antagonism in Brittany, especially amongst the local clergy. Upon the death of Sylvester around 1093, Robert fled to Angers. Here he resumed his studies at the local cathedral school and made acquaintance with its schoolmaster Marbodius. In addition to his studies, he further turned more intensely to asceticism.

Life as hermit, itinerant preacher and foundation of La Roë