Boniface VIII
At a glance:
- Series: Dictionary of World Biography: Middle Ages
- Categories: Government and Politics, Religion, Ethics
- Subcategories: Christianity, Christians, Churches, Empires, Dynasties, Holy Roman Empire, Catholic Church, Catholics, Popes, Papacy, Cardinals
- Curriculum: Italian History, Medieval History/Middle Ages
Article abstract: Though pope for only nine years, Boniface represents both the zenith and nadir of papal power and papal monarchy. In his clash with the secular rulers of Western Europe, Boniface insisted upon the ultimate earthly authority of the Papacy.
Early Life
Boniface VIII, probably born in Anagni in 1235 and christened Benedict Caetani, was one of the younger sons of Roffred Caetani and his wife, Emilia, the niece of Pope Alexander IV. His family seems to have been moderately wealthy, owning some land, and well-connected to the Church. Very...
[The entire page is 2242 words long]