Table of Contents

Section 1 The Age of Convergence (c.450-1050): the spread and consolidation of Christianity; religion and the idea of holiness; the rise of the papacy; the Church in the localities; belief and worship. Section 2 The Age of Unification (1050-1270): Gregorian reform - the clerical order; Gregorian reform - popes and the lay world; regular ideals in a changing world; heresy and orthodoxy; logic theology and law; authority and government. Section 3 The Age of Divergence (1270-1515); from victory to captivity; schism and councils; intellectual and theological controversies; piety - orthodox and heretical; the Age of Concordats; the Church in the early 16th century.

Promotional Information

How the Church took over spiritual control of Western Europe to become the foundation of medieval life, setting the moral agenda of society and dominating its intellectual world, is the guiding enquiry at the heart of this book.

About the Author

John A. F. Thomson is at University of Glasgow.

Reviews

'John Thomson has produced a...solid survey of the medieval Church from the fifth to the early sixteenth century....The appendices, particularly useful for the introductory level, include a table of important events, a list of popes from 312 to 1517, and a glossary. The bibliography provides a good overview of scholarly works on the medieval Church.'
*The Medieval Review*

'An excellent survey. Very readable and comprehensive.'
*Robert Clouse, Indiana State University*

'An excellent survey useful as a textbook in medieval church history.'
*E. Ferguson, Abilene Christian University*

'This book contains a wealth of detail and anecdotal evidence. The style is transparent and highly readable.'
*Jim Halverson, Judson College*

'An excellent overview of the important spiritual, intellectual and institutional developments in the church. Written in an accessible style for students.'
*Ronald K. Delph, Eastern Michigan University *