Pope Eugenius III (1145-1153): The First Cistercian Pope

Elected pope in the wake of a rebellion, Eugenius III came to power as a relatively unknown quantity during a time of crisis. This book examines the controversial developments in papal justice and theological debate during his pontificate, his treatment of Cistercian monasteries, his relationships with France, Spain, and Rome, his work in the papal states, and the crusades. It offers a new view of an under-appreciated pope and the place of the church in a rapidly changing European society.