<i>The formation of a medieval church: ecclesiastical change in Verona, 950-1150</i> (review)
Toby Burrows
Reviews 209 Seven of the ten contributors are from Cambridge and many pieces have feeling solid grounding in manuscripts which characterizes a good deal work tbefieldcoming out that Univeristy. While Gregory Great is mistakenly credited with having been concerned about lips singing praises love instead Jove (p. 3), slips editing what must difficulttextare very few. The layout pages as pleasing Carolingian manuscript, illustrations reproduced exemplary clarity. editor press to be congratulated on production book delight handle use. John Moorhead Department History University Queensland Miller, Maureen C, formation medieval church: ecclesiastical change Verona, 950-1150, Ithaca London, Cornell Press, 1993; cloth; pp. xvui, 216; 6 illustrations; R.R.P. US$38.50. period between mid tenth century twelfth was most important era European Church. It during this time, especially mid-eleventh century, Church developed into w e think its typically 'medieval' form, hierarchical organization reaching apex Pope, well trained organized clergy dedicated poverty, chastity, care souls, growing number spiritually dynamic religious orders. Above all, characterized by an aggressive assertion independence control secular society rulers. process largely attributed 'Gregorian Reform' eleventh epitomized Pope VII. From Miller's study however, rather different picture emerges. By looking detaU at fortunes diocese Verona critical history Church, she able show reality more complex capable interpretation. chosen for her study, originally doctorate Harvard university, because there remains quite rich collection documents Archivio di Stato Capitolare Segreto Vaticano. also broadly typical cities size history. 210 Tbe sources thoroughly analysed tbe light they shed thereligioushistory Verona. MUler describes three computer databases constructed, containing details charters, information institutions, place names. But far being dry statistical analysis. With deft sure touch, together interesting account Veronese church, turn clergy, life, diocesan organizational structures, bishops. writing clear graceful throughout, use careful judicious. This than however. In course book, Miller tackles fundamental questions nature period, persuades us torethinksome our assumptions it. She treats spiritual, political institutional matters unified whole, notably excellent discussion role bishops Her underlying thesis it not fruitful speak reform' imposed dioceses Pope. Rather, time great innovation creativity, 'quickening' brought rapid demographic growth, economic development, social change. creative ferment resulted new, began before VII just evident under imperial papal control. one these, offers, but wide-ranging analysis, persuasive example mixture institutional, period. As skill sophistication argument, well-produced, large typeface, plenty space layout, nice decorative embellishments. All an...
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