The Albigensian Heresy

A concise historical study traces the origins, variety, and suppression of medieval dualist and reform movements in southern France, arguing they were heterogeneous and not traceable to a single source. The author examines proposed connections with Manichaeism, Priscillianism and Donatism and finds them insufficient, then analyzes how local social, political and religious conditions around Toulouse and Albi fostered growth. Documentary bias from ecclesiastical and heterodox sides is assessed to separate polemic from probable practice. The work reconstructs core beliefs, rites, organization, and the coordinated church and secular campaigns, including inquisitorial and military measures, that sought to eradicate these groups.