Papal Rule Mechanics by Sarah Davis

Papal Rule Mechanics explores the medieval papacy not just as a spiritual entity, but as a sophisticated political power. It delves into the administrative machinery that enabled popes to influence monarchs and shape medieval Europe. The book argues that the papacy's political agency was as crucial as its spiritual role, challenging traditional views. For instance, the papacy's strategic use of excommunication and interdict could dramatically alter political landscapes. The book examines the papal bureaucracy and how canon law shaped societal norms. It traces the development of papal legal theory and the use of tools like interdicts.

The study progresses chronologically, outlining the key administrative structures, the development of papal legal theory, and specific case studies like the Investiture Controversy and the Albigensian Crusade, culminating in an analysis of the decline of papal authority. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the papacy's lasting influence.