Jessica Wärnberg

In this engaging discussion, Jessica Wärnberg, author of 'City of Echoes,' reveals the theatrical nature of papal elections in the Middle Ages. She and Dr. Eleanor Janega unpack the political intrigues of powerful families influencing outcomes. The conversation dives into the establishment of cardinal-only voting and the complexities introduced by the Third Lateran Council. They also discuss how the evolving conclave process reflected both divine and political pressures. Expect bizarre tales that show the very human side of one of history's most secretive elections.