| The Rule Of The Harlots |
Article Index for The Rule |
Website Links For Rule |
Information AboutThe Rule Of The Harlots |
|
During this period, the Pope s were influenced strongly by three major Roman families, the Theophylacts , the Alberics , and the Tusculans . They were in particular under the influence of powerful Women (though not necessarily prostitutes) in these families, especially Theodora and her daughters, Marozia and Theodora, of the Theophylact family. It is widely believed that Marozia was the Concubine of Pope Sergius III and the mother of Pope John XI . She was also accused of having had Pope John X (who had originally been nominated for office by Theodora) Murder ed in order to secure the Election of her current favourite, Pope Leo VI . INFLUENCE OVER 10TH CENTURY POPES Theodora and Marozia undoubtedly held great sway over the popes during this time. In particular, as political rulers of Rome they had effective control over the election of new popes. However, it is debatable whether all of the allegations that have been made against them can be substantiated. Much that is alleged about the pornocracy comes from the histories of Liutprand , bishop of Cremona . Liutprand took part in the ''Assembly of Bishops'' which deposed Pope John XII and was a political enemy of Rome ; he is described by the '' Catholic Encyclopedia '' as "ever a strong Partisan and frequently unfair towards his Adversaries ." The worst excesses of the time might be considered no more than ecclesiastic Gossip . LIST OF POPES DURING THE PORNOCRACY
SEE ALSO REFERENCES
|