The Church and medieval heresy c.1100–1437

This topic explores the relationship between the medieval Church and heresy from c.1100 to 1437, a period of profound religious, social, and political change. It covers the rise of popular heresies such as Catharism and Waldensianism, the Church's response through mechanisms like the Inquisition and crusades, and the broader context of papal authority, lay piety, and ecclesiastical reform. Understanding this topic is crucial for grasping how medieval society grappled with dissent and how the Church sought to maintain orthodoxy in an era of increasing intellectual and spiritual diversity.

The period saw the Church transform from a relatively decentralized institution into a more centralized and authoritarian body, exemplified by the Fourth Lateran Council (1215) and the establishment of the papal Inquisition. Heresy was not merely a religious issue but also a political and social one, often intertwined with local power struggles, anti-clerical sentiment, and economic grievances. The Albigensian Crusade (1209–1229) against the Cathars in southern France illustrates how the Church used military force to suppress heresy, while the trial of Joan of Arc (1431) shows the continued threat of heresy accusations into the 15th century.

For OCR A-Level students, this topic requires analysis of the causes and consequences of heresy, the effectiveness of the Church's response, and the changing nature of religious authority. It connects to broader themes of medieval state-building, the power of the papacy, and the roots of the Reformation. By studying primary sources such as inquisitorial manuals, papal bulls, and chronicles, students can evaluate differing perspectives on heresy and the Church's actions.