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What were the long-term effects of the Great Schism on Middle Ages and Feudalism?

Major Okker

The Great Schism, which occurred between 1378 and 1417, had lasting effects on the Middle Ages and feudalism. This event led to the split of the Catholic Church into the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church, causing political, economic, and social changes.

One of the long-term effects of the Great Schism was the weakening of the power of the Catholic Church over Western Europe. The split resulted in two popes, each with their own followers, reducing the influence of the papacy in spiritual matters, political affairs, and economic transactions. The church was no longer a united entity, leading to confusion among believers and a decrease in the power of the papacy.

The Great Schism also had significant political effects during the Middle Ages. The split caused tension between nations that followed different popes such as France and England, leading to wars and conflicts. The divided church also weakened the influence of the papacy on the Holy Roman Empire, leading to the rise of secular leaders with more power over the Catholic Church.

In terms of economics, the split resulted in a fragmentation of the centralized system of the Catholic Church. The church had the power to collect and manage large amounts of wealth, but with the split, this power was diminished, and the local rulers gained more control over the wealth and lands owned by the church. This redistribution of wealth contributed to feudalism's decline, as economic power was no longer concentrated within the church.

Moreover, the Great Schism also produced profound social consequences. Both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches became more defensive and insular, leading to a lack of communication and cultural exchange between Western Europe and the Byzantine Empire. This isolationism contributed to the weakening of intellectual traditions, stalling scientific and artistic advancements in Europe.

In conclusion, the Great Schism had significant long-term effects on the Middle Ages and feudalism, resulting in the weakening of the papacy's power, political conflicts, economic changes, and a lack of cultural exchange. The split of the church contributed to a shift in power from the religious authorities to secular leaders and marked a turning point in European history, leading to the Renaissance and the Reformation.