large measure, on a close examination and analysis of what we would call ideology, as expressed both in general writings and particularly in the usages and ceremonies of state, such as services of coronation. In his Preface to the original 1953 edition of the book, Ullman notes the importance of these symbolic acts, and historians' failure to fully consider them:
I had to deal with a great number of topics which
for inscrutable reasons lie outside the historian's
view, such as liturgy, symbolism, and so forth.
... departments which I strongly feel are far too
little the concern of medieval historians. (p. vi.)
His reliance is very heavily on primary sources, which he quotes extensively (and without apology) in the original Latin. Because he is dealing with ideas and ideology, words matter, and perhaps only the experienced Latinist is fully qualified to analyze or criticize the interpretation he draws from letters, liturgies, and other primary materials.
Ullman's general view is that the Papacy followed a consistant path of hierocratic emphasis on its own supreme authority, virtually from its inception as a clearly defined institution. But because the basis of its authority was the word, not the sword, it was vitally dependent on some secular authority.
The end of the ninth and the first half of the
tenth centuries demonstrate the truism that the
Roman emperor was indeed of vital importance for
the functioning of the papacy. (p. 229)
...