The Conclave: A Sometimes Secret and Occasionally Bloody History of Papal Elections - Hardcover

In The Conclave, Michael Walsh has written a concise new history of the Papacy from a fresh perspective, focused not so much on the character and achievements of the Bishops of Rome during their time of office, as on the issues, struggles, and occasional violence and intrigue that have surrounded their elections. More than any other brief history of the papacy currently available, this book brings out the political and cultural context in which the Papacy operates, as authority is handed on from successor to successor in the Petrine ministry. Walsh combines a historian's learning and care for detail with a story-teller's gift for gripping narrative, and the result is both instructive and entertaining.--Brian E. Daley, S.J., Catherine F. Huisking Professor of Theology, University of Notre Dame

Recommended for seminary and academic libraries and for community libraries with strong religion circulations.--David I. Fulton, College of St. Elizabeth "Library Journal "

A well-written survey of papal elections from the earliest times to the present day. Walsh's book is especially valuable for those who wish to follow the changing procedures for choosing the pope over the centuries. His material on the first millennium provides a long-needed account that is not available elsewhere.--Francis Burkle-Young, author of Passing the Keys: Modern Cardinals, Conclaves, and the Election of the Next Pope

The Conclave is church history as it is meant to be written: with style, energy, and even wit. The sinful and the saintly, the conniving and the compassionate, the greedy and the good, make up this entirely fascinating survey of the history of papal elections. In a book for scholars and layperson alike, Michael Walsh offers solid research, brilliant prose, and, best of all, a terrific story.--James Martin, SJ, author of In Good Company and The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything

Prominent Catholic historian Michael Walsh takes readers through the history of the conclaves past, highlighting the vendettas, feuds, and political intrigues that have colored the selction of a new pontiff.