Papal Power 1049-1216
What was the significance of ‘Gregorian’ reform to the reform papacy of 1046-1215?
I am looking for an essay to answer this question as a model answer to aid in my revision, as this (or a similar question on ‘Gregorian’ reform) may come up in the exam. As it is for revision and in the exam we are not required to reference, the referencing of facts is not essential. However what is vital is that when a primary or secondary source is considered, that is it made clear what this is either in referencing or in the essay, to enable me to learn from this through revision. Showing a good knowledge of the historiographical debate over issues is critical to answering this essay correctly, and so whether intertwined or addressed separately, this must be included. As it is a relatively small essay for a broad topic being concise is important, making some general assumptions (if known to be accurate) is allowed, and showing good knowledge of the topic without going into minute detail would be helpful – again this is for revision and so due to time constraints in the exam I will have a small amount of time to cover wide arguments and answers.
Looking at the ‘gregorian’ reforms which transformed the papacy in the period of 1046-1215. Although a major part of the answer, the essay should not focus solely on Hildebrand (Gregory VII), but more a general analyse of what would become known as ‘Gregorian’ reform and the impact it had on establishing and influencing the Reform Papacy (1049-1216). The introduction should have a brief overview of what the defining characteristics of ‘Gregorian’ reform are (contemporary vs modern view).
As well as the influence on and relationship Hildebrand had with reform, this can include briefly looking at whether similar reform movements within the Church were already taking place before Gregory VII came to prominence, what impact these had and whether labelling them ‘gregorian’ is correct.
It could then go on to discuss the impact these reforms had on the rest of the period (1049-1216), whether they were successful or not in their aims throughout (points of success/failure), and the contemporary opinions of them within the church (and empire). Then ending with a conclusion of everything mentioned above, and answering questions considered throughout (significance, success/failure by 1216).
Primary sources should be used and referred to as often as possible – I have attached some documents containing them, but others can be used (Dictatus Papae). Showing a knowledge of and discussing the different historiographical arguments revolving around the issue is also a central part of the marking scheme, and for this the course reading list is essential.
If there are other ideas, answers, issues, sources, respected texts and opinions of historians not mentioned in the above outline that the writer feels are relevant and would add to the answer feel free to use them – the above is not a rigid structure
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