Lecture Notes / Study Guide: Christendom—Europe in the Age of
Faith
I. Introduction
Period spans roughly 1000–1300 C.E., often seen as the High Middle
Ages.
Defined by the dominance of Christianity in all aspects of
European life—political, cultural, social, and intellectual.
Concept of “Christendom”: not just religion but a civilization
united under Christian ideals
Chapter 6_ Christendom_ Europe …
.
II. Political and Religious Unity
A. Papal Authority
The papacy asserted itself as the supreme spiritual and, at times,
political authority.
Pope Gregory VII and successors emphasized reform, celibacy, and
papal supremacy over kings.
Ongoing investiture controversy: struggle between popes and
secular rulers over appointing bishops
Chapter 6_ Christendom_ Europe …
.
B. Secular and Ecclesiastical Power
Monarchies grew stronger but often relied on Church legitimacy.
Balance of power between kings and popes created both conflicts and
cooperation.
III. Social and Cultural Life
Faith
I. Introduction
Period spans roughly 1000–1300 C.E., often seen as the High Middle
Ages.
Defined by the dominance of Christianity in all aspects of
European life—political, cultural, social, and intellectual.
Concept of “Christendom”: not just religion but a civilization
united under Christian ideals
Chapter 6_ Christendom_ Europe …
.
II. Political and Religious Unity
A. Papal Authority
The papacy asserted itself as the supreme spiritual and, at times,
political authority.
Pope Gregory VII and successors emphasized reform, celibacy, and
papal supremacy over kings.
Ongoing investiture controversy: struggle between popes and
secular rulers over appointing bishops
Chapter 6_ Christendom_ Europe …
.
B. Secular and Ecclesiastical Power
Monarchies grew stronger but often relied on Church legitimacy.
Balance of power between kings and popes created both conflicts and
cooperation.
III. Social and Cultural Life
