Page:Readings in European History Vol 1.djvu/310

 274 Readings in European History III. GREGORY VII's CONCEPTION OF THE POPE'S PREROGATIVES Among the letters and decrees of Gregory VII a list ^ propositions is found which briefly summarizes the claims of the papacy. The purpose of this so-called Dictatus is unknown ; it was probably drawn up shortly after Gregory's accession and no doubt gives an official statement of the powers which he believed that he rightly possessed. The more important of the twenty-seven propositions contained in the Dictatus are given below. The Roman church was founded by God alone. The Roman bishop alone is properly called universal. He alone may depose bishops and reinstate them. His legate, though of inferior grade, takes precedence, in a council, of all bishops and may render a decision of depo- sition against them. He alone may use the insignia of empire. 1 The pope is the only person whose feet are kissed by all princes. His title is unique in the world. 2 He may depose emperors. No council may be regarded as a general one without his consent. No book or chapter may be regarded as canonical without his authority. A decree of his may be annulled by no one ; he alone may annul the decrees of all. 1 The Donation of Constantino describes the emperor Constantine as leaving his imperial scepter, cloak, etc., to Pope Sylvester. The word " use " (Latin uti) here employed may perhaps be used in the sense of " dispose of," referring to the pope's asserted claim to control the election of the emperor. 2 This is the first distinct assertion of the exclusive right of the bishop of Rome to the title of pope, once applied to all bishops. See History of Western Europe, p. 52, note.