Boso's life of Hadrian IV: a translation and historical commentary

Abstract

This thesis seeks to examine Boso's writing of the life of Hadrian IV within the context of twelfth century papal and imperial politics, and to assess his contribution to the history and historiography of that period. In the introduction the historical background of the Church and European politics is outlined. Particularly the Church's development into a territorial power as well as the changing role of pope from monk to lawyer is discussed. Hadrian's reign, it is found, is the transition period and his achievements as well as his troubles must be seen in this context. The political situation is regarded in terms of the papacy's neighbours, allies, and those with other interests in the papal territory. The various states are examined and their dealings with the papacy up to the time of Hadrian are outlined. The special relationship between the papacy and the Empire, as well as the problems within Rome, are closely discussed. The second part of the introduction is concerned with Boso's life and his history. The traditions for Boso's life and career are investigated and it is concluded that Boso's important career is a major addition to the understanding of his history. Boso's other works are listed and the thematic continuity of the development of the papacy as a territorial power is revealed. For this reason, Boso's history of Hadrian's reign is seen to be of great importance as the basis for our understanding of the greater conflict in Alexander's reign. A translation of Boso's life of Hadrian IV (from the Latin version in the Liber Pontificalis) is then given. Footnotes explaining details of translation, etc are given at the end. The commentary follows, structured around Boso's presentation of the life of Hadrian IV. This begins with brief mention of Hadrian's origins and early career, his election and his meeting and coronation of Frederick Barbarossa. The major theme of Hadrian's dealings with William of Sicily and the conclusion of the Treaty of Benevento is fully discussed. The commentary deals with Boso's presentation and omissions as well as the background and implications resulting from comparison with other sources. The events of the years 1157 - 1159, that is, the breakdown in relations with Frederick Barbarossa, which Boso omits from his history are then detailed. The reasons for their omission are discussed in the chapter on historiography. Boso's intentions in writing a small but pertinent piece of history are found to lie in the papacy's used to justify the Treaty of Benevento. Boso's portrayal of the papacy in change during Hadrian's reign as well as the importance of territorial ambitions are found to be key factors in his history. From this it has been concluded that Boso's is a very important contribution to the understanding of the papal position immediately before the double election. It is also, in its religious interpretation of the reversal of alliances, a remarkable piece of history writing. The appendices follow: translations of William of Newburgh and Matthew of Paris (sources for Hadrian's early life); a translation of the Treaty of Constance; a discussion of Hadrian's dealings with Henry II, and the donation of Ireland.