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Charter Quote by Pope Innocent III

“This [Magna Carta] has been forced from the King. It constitutes an insult to the Holy See, a serious weakening of the royal power, a disgrace to the English nation, a danger to all Christendom, since this civil war obstructs the crusade. Therefore?we condemn the charter and forbid the King to…” quote by Pope Innocent III
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“This [Magna Carta] has been forced from the King. It constitutes an insult to the Holy See, a serious weakening of the royal power, a disgrace to the English nation, a danger to all Christendom, since this civil war obstructs the crusade. Therefore?we condemn the charter and forbid the King to keep it, or the barons and their supporters to make him do so, on pain of excommunication.”

Pope Innocent III

About This Quote

Source Papal Bull, 1215

He condemned the Magna Carta as an affront to royal and religious authority, urging excommunication for those supporting it.

In simple terms: He saw the charter as a threat to king and church.

Key Takeaway

Consider the balance of power and law.

Themes

authority law religion politics

Mood

critical historical

Type

political legal

When to use this quote

  • royal court
  • church council
  • feudal disputes

Key Concepts

sovereignty church‑state relations medieval law

Questions to Reflect On

  • Did the Magna Carta improve governance?
  • Can authority be checked without rebellion?
A Different Perspective

His view ignores the charter’s role in limiting tyranny.

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