The 12th Century (A)

(Originally written July 26, 2006 in Book 5)

The History of Western Philosophy
Bertrand Russell

Chapter XI - The 12th Century

Four aspects of the 12th century are of special interest to Russell:

1) The continued conflict of empire and papacy
2) The rise of the Lombard cities
3) The Crusades
4) The growth of scholasticism

Conflict of Empire & Papacy

The Popes gained more power over the kings in the 12th century. They consolidated power in the Church and Church officials were better behaved than before the reform.

The Lombard cities achieved a sense of independence through wars against Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire.

The cities of Northern Italy rose through trade, not through the Church.