History ETDs
Publication Date
Spring 4-5-2018
Abstract
Gregory IX (pope 1227-41) asserted his papal authority over secular and religious leaders in an attempt to showcase the strength of the church. His pontificate took place between those of the famous Innocent III (1198-1216) and the powerful Innocent IV (1243-54), meaning that Gregory’s accomplishments are often overshadowed. This thesis aims to prove that Gregory is a worthy protagonist and a worthy subject of study in his own right. Comparing Gregory’s pontificate to those of his immediate predecessor and successor highlights the shifting nature of Gregory’s priorities. This work examines Gregory’s relationship with Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II regarding crusades and the emperor’s controversial relationship with Muslims. Gregory’s unique method of addressing Islam as a propagandistic tactic implies that he was more concerned with a group’s actions rather than its religious affiliation. The pope also had disagreements with St. Clare of Assisi regarding the privilege of poverty, and he tried to limit her monastery’s rights in an effort to secure his authority over female monastic orders. Pope Gregory IX knew how to play the political game, and he marks a transitional period in the papacy as a pope who strove to maintain his position of power.
Level of Degree
Masters
Degree Name
History
Department Name
History
First Committee Member (Chair)
Sarah Davis-Secord
Second Committee Member
Michael Ryan
Third Committee Member
Timothy Graham
Language
English
Keywords
Gregory IX, Frederick II, crusades, papal-imperial relations, Islam, Honorius III, Clare of Assisi
Document Type
Thesis
Recommended Citation
Northcutt, Emily. "The Transition of Papal Politicization as Demonstrated through Pope Gregory IX and His Adversaries in the Thirteenth Century." (2018). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/hist_etds/217
Included in
Christianity Commons, European History Commons, History of Religion Commons, Medieval History Commons, Medieval Studies Commons
