Benedict XII (ca. 1334-1342) was a key figure of the Avignon papal court. He was renowned for rooting out heretics and distinguished himself as a refined theologian. During his reign, he faced the most significant religious and political challenges in the era of the Avignon papacy: theological quarrels, divisions and schisms within the Church, conflicts between European sovereigns, and the growth of Turkish power in the East. This book offers a unique overview of his career and pontificate, bringing together nine essays that discuss the existing literature and address original perspectives based on new research. In spite of its diminished political influence, the papacy, which had recently moved to France, emerged as an institution committed to the defence and expansion of the Catholic faith in Europe and the East. Benedict made significant contributions to the definition of doctrine, the assessment of pontifical power in Western Europe, and the expansion of Catholicism in the East: in all these different contexts he distinguished himself as a true guardian of orthodoxy.
Introduction: Benedict XII, the Guardian of Orthodoxy
irene bueno
2018
Abstract
Benedict XII (ca. 1334-1342) was a key figure of the Avignon papal court. He was renowned for rooting out heretics and distinguished himself as a refined theologian. During his reign, he faced the most significant religious and political challenges in the era of the Avignon papacy: theological quarrels, divisions and schisms within the Church, conflicts between European sovereigns, and the growth of Turkish power in the East. This book offers a unique overview of his career and pontificate, bringing together nine essays that discuss the existing literature and address original perspectives based on new research. In spite of its diminished political influence, the papacy, which had recently moved to France, emerged as an institution committed to the defence and expansion of the Catholic faith in Europe and the East. Benedict made significant contributions to the definition of doctrine, the assessment of pontifical power in Western Europe, and the expansion of Catholicism in the East: in all these different contexts he distinguished himself as a true guardian of orthodoxy.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.