Bonds of Wool: The Pallium and Papal Power in the Middle Ages, by Steven A. Schoenig, SJ
R. N. Swanson
The late medieval papal monarchy is generally seen as emerging in the long twelfth century—born period of Gregorian Reform, consolidated by lawyer popes and thirteenth centuries (notably Innocent III) consummated administrative papacy Avignon. Its genesis, however, elusive: pre-Gregorian marked notable individuals, but rarely evinces a clear theoretical practical stance whose continuity can be said to lead inexorably later papalist hierocracy. Steven Schoenig’s major monograph claims locate that missing thread woven into pallium, woollen vestment (little more than scarf) which popes, from sixth century onwards, granted (at first not exclusively) metropolitans archbishops, accompanied exhortations to, demands for, obedience loyalty Apostolic See. Extensive excavation relevant sources underpins strong compelling case, one certainly merits serious attention will need integrated future analyses papacy’s rise exercise of, pre-eminence western church.
The English Historical Review