Chapter 2 Summary and Analysis

The 14th century is off to a rough start with a population increase. The farming methods of the day are operating at maximum capacity and the need to feed these additional people is a problem. Meanwhile, there are political conflicts and arguments between rulers and the clergy. Under Pope Clement V, the church sells offices freely and uses the threat of excommunication as a way to make the reluctant person pay specific fees. Money can buy almost anything. Many men—including members of the clergy—purchase papers of legitimacy for their bastard sons. Others buy offices for men who are not eligible to hold them, often because of age restrictions. There are illiterate priests who hold office by virtue of a payment. Penance for specific wrongs might be a pilgrimage to Rome or Jerusalem, but simply calculate the cost...