Deaths on January 10

Petrus Aureolus, scholastic philosopher

Petrus Aureolus (c. 1280 – January 10, 1322) stands as a prominent figure in the intellectual landscape of the late medieval period. Renowned as a scholastic philosopher and theologian, he was affectionately known by his contemporaries as "Doctor Facundus" (the Eloquent Doctor) or "Doctor ingeniosissimus" (the Most Ingenious Doctor) due to his incisive intellect and persuasive arguments. His work significantly contributed to the ongoing philosophical and theological debates of his era, particularly within the influential Franciscan intellectual tradition, which emphasized empirical observation and theological precision.

While precise details regarding Aureolus's early life before 1312 remain largely obscure to historians, his career trajectory thereafter is more clearly documented. Following this period, he commenced his academic and spiritual duties within the influential Franciscan Order. He notably taught at the Franciscan convent in Bologna, a city renowned for its ancient university and vibrant intellectual life that attracted scholars from across Europe. Subsequently, around 1314, he moved to the Franciscan convent in Toulouse, another significant intellectual center in southern France, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable scholar and teacher.

A pivotal moment in Aureolus's career occurred in 1316 when he journeyed to Paris, the undisputed intellectual capital of medieval Europe and home to its most prestigious university. His primary objective was to qualify for his doctorate in theology. This rigorous process required him to "read the Sentences," a specific and demanding academic exercise involving the public commentary on Peter Lombard's Libri Quattuor Sententiarum (Four Books of Sentences). This seminal 12th-century theological textbook served as the standard curriculum for all aspiring masters of theology, effectively functioning as the core graduate-level text for the era. By 1318, Petrus Aureolus successfully achieved the esteemed title of Master of Theology at the University of Paris, a testament to his profound erudition and mastery of theological discourse. This appointment granted him the authority to teach independently and supervise doctoral candidates, cementing his status among the intellectual elite of his time.

Aureolus's distinguished academic career soon transitioned into significant ecclesiastical responsibilities. In 1321, he received a monumental appointment from his influential mentor, Pope John XXII (born Jacques Duèze), who himself had been a professor in Toulouse during Aureolus's tenure there, fostering a strong intellectual bond. Pope John XXII elevated Aureolus to the prestigious position of Archbishop of Aix-en-Provence, a significant promotion within the Church hierarchy, entrusting him with substantial spiritual and administrative authority in the region. Tragically, however, his tenure in this high office was remarkably brief. Petrus Aureolus passed away not long after his appointment, on January 10, 1322, marking an untimely end to a brilliant career that had promised even greater contributions to both scholastic philosophy and the Church.

Frequently Asked Questions About Petrus Aureolus

• Who was Petrus Aureolus?

  Petrus Aureolus (c. 1280 – January 10, 1322) was a highly influential scholastic philosopher and theologian of the late medieval period. A member of the Franciscan Order, he was renowned for his intellectual prowess and referred to by titles such as "Doctor Facundus" (the Eloquent Doctor) and "Doctor ingeniosissimus" (the Most Ingenious Doctor).

• What was his academic journey before becoming a Master in Paris?

  After 1312, Petrus Aureolus taught at Franciscan convents, first in Bologna and then around 1314 in Toulouse. He moved to Paris in 1316 to pursue his doctorate, a requirement for which was to "read the Sentences" of Peter Lombard, a standard theological text for medieval scholars.

• What was the significance of becoming a Master of Theology at the University of Paris?

  Becoming a Master of Theology at the University of Paris in 1318 was a pinnacle academic achievement in the medieval era. It signified his profound knowledge and mastery of theological discourse, granting him the authority to teach independently at Europe's foremost intellectual institution and to supervise other doctoral students.

• How did he become Archbishop of Aix-en-Provence and what happened after?

  In 1321, Petrus Aureolus was appointed Archbishop of Aix-en-Provence by his mentor, Pope John XXII, who recognized his exceptional talents. This was a significant ecclesiastical promotion. However, his tenure as archbishop was very short-lived as he died on January 10, 1322, only a few months after his appointment.

• What does "reading the Sentences" entail in medieval academic practice?

  "Reading the Sentences" was a crucial academic prerequisite for a doctorate in theology in medieval universities, particularly at Paris. It involved a scholar publicly lecturing and commenting on Peter Lombard's *Four Books of Sentences*, a comprehensive theological textbook. This exercise demonstrated the candidate's mastery of the core theological curriculum and their ability to engage with complex doctrinal issues.