Hagiography, Sanctity, Martyrdom and Monasticism in the 12th Century

Essay from the year 2025 in the subject History of Europe - Middle Ages, Early Modern Age, , language: English, abstract: There is no doubt that one of the most important institutions in medieval society was the Church, and its influence, authority, and doctrine marked the path to follow for both princes and peasants. To speak of twelfth-century Western society is to speak of a Christian society. Thus, the history of the Church must be framed within the general evolution of that society, including spiritual, cultural, political and economic aspects. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the study of the religious beliefs and practices of the masses and the different popular groups. In this work, I have tried to bring together a series of essays that, in my opinion, can show common elements that were relevant when defining features of the history of the Church in this period, not only as an estate but as a spiritual guide for an entire society.