Rome and the Invention of the Papacy: The Liber Pontificalis

The Liber pontificalis is a papal history that portrays Rome as a holy city, establishes the bishops' power, and articulates the popes' spiritual and ministerial role. Rosamond McKitterick's book offers a new analysis of the text's content, context, and transmission, and its significance for the history of early medieval Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 289 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Liber pontificalis, a remarkable and enduring chapter in papal history, has left an indelible mark on perceptions of Rome, the popes, and the intricate tapestry of both the city and the papacy within Western Europe. In her insightful analysis, Rosamond McKitterick delves into the intricate blend of historical reconstruction, deliberate selection, and political exploitation of fiction, shedding light on the history of the early popes and their profound relationship with Rome. McKitterick meticulously examines the content, context, and transmission of this extraordinary text, exploring the complex interplay between reality, representation, and reception. Through her comprehensive examination, she unveils the profound significance of the Liber pontificalis in shaping the narrative of early medieval Europe.

The Liber pontificalis presents Rome as a sacred city, adorned with the presence of Christian saints and martyrs, as the bishops of Rome asserted their visible power through the construction of magnificent buildings. It also articulates the spiritual and ministerial role of the popes, seamlessly woven within their Roman imperial inheritance. McKitterick's work draws upon a vast array of interdisciplinary research, providing pioneering insights into the evolution of this extraordinary source and its profound impact on the history of early medieval Europe.

This seminal text not only sheds light on the political and religious dynamics of the early church but also offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between power, authority, and representation. By examining the Liber pontificalis through the lens of historical reconstruction, deliberate selection, and political exploitation, McKitterick provides a fresh perspective on the early popes and their role in shaping the medieval world. Her work contributes to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of early Christian society and its enduring legacy.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108819237