The Avignon Papacy and the Crusades, 1305-1378

Main Themes and Topics

The Avignon Papacy and the Crusades, 1305-1378 by Norman Housley meticulously examines the intersection of the Avignon Papacy with the crusading movement in the fourteenth century. The central theme of the book is the support and policies of the popes residing in Avignon concerning the crusades, offering a deep dive into their strategic initiatives and administrative mechanisms. Housley provides a comprehensive exploration of how the papal Curia influenced the initiation, organization, financing, and diplomatic strategies of the crusades across different regions such as the eastern Mediterranean, Spain, eastern Europe, and Italy.

The book is also notable for its focus on the broader activities of the Avignon papacy, including papal taxation and international relations, particularly with Byzantium. Additionally, the author sheds light on the papacy's objectives and the practical limitations faced during the era, providing commentary on their approaches to peacemaking between Christian factions, the functioning of Military Orders, and the enforcement of trade embargoes against powers like Mamluk Egypt.

Writing Style and Tone

Norman Housley is known for his scholarly yet accessible writing style, and this is evident in The Avignon Papacy and the Crusades, 1305-1378. The book is academic in nature, catering to both historians and readers with a keen interest in medieval religious and political history. Housley combines robust research with clear and engaging prose, providing a work that is both informative and readable. His tone is analytical, with a focus on factual detail and evidence-based conclusions, reflecting meticulous scholarship throughout the text.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

The book provides a detailed study of how the Avignon papacy, residing away from Rome during a significant part of the fourteenth century, interacted with and influenced the crusading movement. Housley brings to light the papal leadership's direct involvement in crusade policy-making and the various facets of the campaigns, including their logistical and financial underpinnings. Additionally, it presents an examination of papal diplomatic efforts and the broader ecclesiastical strategies employed to bolster the crusades and manage relations within Christendom and beyond.