The influence of the clergy in medieval Europe was also due to the fact that they were almost the only persons of education. Few except churchmen were able to read or write. So generally was this the case that an offender could prove himself a clergyman, thus securing "benefit of clergy," [43] if he showed his ability to read a single line. It is interesting, also, to note that the word "clerk," which comes from the Latin clericus, was originally limited to churchmen, since they alone could keep accounts, write letters, and perform other secretarial duties.
IMPORTANCE OF THE CLERGY
It is clear that priests and monks had much importance quite aside from their religious duties. They controlled the schools, wrote the books, framed the laws, and, in general, acted as leaders and molders of public opinion. A most conspicuous instance of the authority wielded by them is seen in the crusades. These holy wars of Christendom against Islam must now be considered.
STUDIES
1. Explain the following terms: abbot; prior; archbishop; parish; diocese; regular clergy; secular clergy; friar; excommunication; simony; interdict; sacrament; "benefit of clergy"; right of "sanctuary"; crosier; miter; tiara; papal indulgence; bull; dispensation; tithes; and "Peter's Pence."
2. Mention some respects in which the Roman Church in the Middle Ages differed from any religious society of the present day.
3. "Medieval Europe was a camp with a church in the background." Comment on this statement.
4. Explain the statement that "the Church, throughout the Middle Ages, was a government as well as an ecclesiastical organization."
5. Distinguish between the faith of the Church, the organization of the Church, and the Church as a force in history.
6. How did the belief in Purgatory strengthen the hold of the Church upon men's minds?