In "Hildebrand and his Times" by William Richard Ward Stephens, readers are taken on a compelling journey through the life and impact of Pope Gregory VII, also known as Hildebrand. The author skillfully weaves together historical facts and analysis to paint a vivid picture of this complex figure and the turbulent times in which he lived.

Stephens delves into the political and religious upheaval of the 11th century, highlighting Gregory VII's determination to reform the Church and assert its authority over secular rulers. Through detailed research and insightful commentary, he showcases the challenges and triumphs faced by Hildebrand as he worked to realize his vision of a unified and reformed Church.

What sets this book apart is Stephens' ability to bring history to life, making the reader feel as though they are witnessing these events firsthand. His engaging writing style, combined with meticulous attention to detail, makes for a captivating and informative read.

Overall, "Hildebrand and his Times" is a must-read for anyone interested in medieval history, religious reform, or the enduring legacy of Pope Gregory VII. Stephens' thorough examination of this pivotal figure sheds new light on a crucial period in Western history, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the man and the times in which he lived.

Book Description:
W.R.W. Stephens, the Anglican Dean of Winchester, writes a short, lively biography of the great church reformer, Hildebrand of Sovana , afterwards Pope Gregory VII, setting his life within the larger context of the struggle for dominance between the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy during the Middle Ages. The roots of the conflict can be traced to the alliance made between Pope Stephen II and his successors and the Frankish King Pippin and his son Charlemagne to break the power of the Lombard Kingdom in Italy. Later emperors sought first to reform and then to dominate the Papacy, but they finally met their match in Hildebrand, leading to the famous confrontation between Pope and Emperor on the snowy steps of Canossa Castle. Facing an imperial invasion, Pope Gregory took the fatal step of summoning his fierce Norman allies. They sacked and burned Rome and carried Hildebrand off to Salerno where, his body weak but his spirit unbowed, he breathed his last crying, "I have loved righteousness and hated iniquity--therefore I die in exile." After Hildebrand's death, his ally Duchess Matilda, the greatest power in northern Italy, continued the struggle with the tragic Emperor, Henry IV, over investiture and reform, a conflict which was only settled under his perfidious son, Henry V.