In the middle ages, who would’ve been considered a heretic by the church
During the Middle Ages, the Church considered several groups and individuals as heretics. Some of the major heretical groups included:
1. Cathars: The Cathars were a Gnostic Christian sect that emerged in the 12th century and spread across Southern Europe. They rejected the authority of the Catholic Church, denied the physical incarnation of Christ, and promoted a dualistic worldview.
2. Waldensians: The Waldensians were a religious movement founded by Peter Waldo in the 12th century. They criticized the hierarchy of the Church, rejected the authority of the Pope, and emphasized direct individual interpretation of the Bible.
3. Hussites: The Hussites were followers of Jan Hus, a Czech reformer in the 15th century. They protested against the moral and financial corruption of the Catholic Church, advocated for the translation of the Bible into the vernacular language, and challenged various Church doctrines.
4. Beguines and Beghards: These were religious communities, mainly in the Low Countries, consisting of lay individuals who pursued a life of poverty, charity, and personal piety. Some were accused of espousing unorthodox beliefs and practices.
5. Jews: Jews were often labeled heretics by the Church during the Middle Ages due to their refusal to accept Christian teachings and their adherence to Judaism. They faced widespread persecution, including being accused of ritual murders and being forced into ghettos.
It is worth noting that the definition of heresy varied over time and in different regions. The Church authorities often determined who was considered a heretic, and persecution could vary in severity.