The Papacy

Rating:
Summary: Eminently readable introduction to the medieval Papacy
Review: Schimmelpfennig provides the lay reader - and the historian - with a guide that is both accessible and relatively detailed on what is to most an obscure subject. At his best when discussing the political interactions between the papacy and the Carolingian/Holy Roman empires, this book opened up my interest in a host of contemporary issues, from the schism to the Cathar heresy. Good reading.

PS - A must if you are a fan of Umberto Eco

Rating:
Summary: FANTASTIC RESOURCE
Review: This book is a phenomenal resource for any inquisitive mind desiring to delve into the brilliant panoply of the history of the Roman Catholic Church, and in specific that of its greatest and founding institution: The Papacy. The author's narrative and flowing literary style makes it a joy to read and indeed this book needs no pictures or illustrations whatsoever, so vibrant is the written word. I highly recommend it to any and all who are looking for a thorough, well-written and researched, and easily-digested history. One of the best books available today in the area of papal history.