Crusade preaching, c. 1095-1216: control, evolution and impact

Durkin, Frances Elizabeth (2020). Crusade preaching, c. 1095-1216: control, evolution and impact. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis investigates the papacy’s authority over the preaching of crusades between 1095 and 1216. It connects for the first time the administrative government of the Papal Monarchy with the data relating to known crusade participants to show the varied effectiveness of crusade preaching. The study is divided thematically into four key areas that show the different ways in which crusading was communicated: the role of successive popes as crusade preachers; the significance of epistolary communication of the popes’ crusade messages; the impact of the numerous proxy preachers who acted with or without the papacy’s authority; and the contribution of magnus rumor, which developed organically from the original crusade message but was not subject to direct papal influence. By inputting data relating to known crusaders into Geographical Information Software, it compares crusade recruits with papal letters and preaching events and proves that crusade preachers’ successes varied according to the time and regions in which they preached. The thesis shows that, despite a clear evolution in the methods of communication, the effectiveness of promoting a successful crusade recruitment campaign during a period in which successive popes sought to assert Petrine authority was constrained by external factors.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):