Political escatology and economy of salvation in medieval christianity: evasions in the foucaultian genealogy of governmentality

Abstract

This paper analyses the eschatological dimension of the constitution of the ecclesiastical pastorate between the 11th and 13th century. With this purpose, it sets up a dialogue with Michel Foucault´s analytics of power. Thus, it examines the economy of salvation characteristic of the medieval Roman church, as well as the movements of resistance that emerged at its margins. In parallel to the historical study, the paper evaluates how the foucaultian genealogy of governmentality conceives the medieval pastorate. Finally, it argues that the eschatological temporality launched by Christianity characterizes the way in which the Church exercises a legalised and pastoral power. This governmental duality culminates with the papal aspiration to an absolutist power and is most clearly revealed in the persecution of heretics.