The Rule of the Harlots
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- For other uses of the term pornocracy, see Pornocracy (disambiguation).
During this period, the popes 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) murdered 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." Some of the worst excesses of the time might thus be considered to be no more than ecclesiastic gossip or slander.List of popes during the pornocracy
- Pope Sergius III (904–911), alleged lover of Marozia
- Pope Anastasius III (911–913)
- Pope Lando (913–914)
- Pope John X (914–928), allegedly killed by Marozia
- Pope Leo VI (928–928)
- Pope Stephen VII (928–931)
- Pope John XI (931–935), son of Marozia, alleged son of Pope Sergius III
- Pope Leo VII (936–939)
- Pope Stephen VIII (939–942)
- Pope Marinus II (942–946)
- Pope Agapetus II (946–955)
- Pope John XII (955–963)
See also
References
- Church and Society in a Crisis Age: Tenth and Eleventh Century Europe by Harlie Kay Gallatin. [Online]
- [The Catholic Encyclopedia entry on Liutprand of Cremona]
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