Research on reform in the eleventh and twelfth centuries has, for some time now, expressed dissatisfaction with our standard narratives (Fliche, Tellenbach) of this period in ecclesiastical history. But new, broad interpretations have not yet emerged. This proposed session, which has been linked to and is being co-sponsored with two, related sessions under the aegis of ICMAC (International Society of Medieval Canon Law) invites papers taking a fresh look at a leading clerical figure, issue, or source. What aspects of reform are not captured by the traditional narratives? How crucial is the episcopate and secular clergy to existing and proposed narratives of church reform? And, more importantly, what kind of narrative about reform does a renewed focus on individuals, groups, or documents suggest? 

III. Monks against Bishops? Reconsidering Episcopal-Monastic Relationships 

On the heels of a 2011 Episcopus session devoted to monks who became bishops in the course of their careers, this panel will examine a long-standing debate about the roles and relationships between regular and secular clergy within a universal church. In particular, it aims to take as its point of departure the arguments of earlier scholars, who frequently saw episcopal and monastic interests as inherently controversial or at cross-purposes. This panel will question the usefulness of this dichotomy and seek alternative visions for understanding the structural relationships of monks (including abbots) and prelates across historical periods and contexts.