Saint Bernard of Clairvaux: A Driving Force in Medieval Europe

Born in Burgundy around 1090, Bernard of Clairvaux (known in Latin as Bernardus Claraevallensis) quickly became a towering figure, posthumously venerated as Saint Bernard. His profound impact was most notably felt in the revitalization of Benedictine monasticism through the nascent Cistercian Order. Bernard's spiritual leadership led to the establishment of Clairvaux Abbey in 1115, a beacon in an isolated glen known as Val d'Absinthe, approximately 15 kilometres southeast of Bar-sur-Aube. A testament to his influential counsel, Bernard attended the pivotal Council of Troyes in 1128, where he meticulously outlined the foundational Rule of the Knights Templar, an order that swiftly became the epitome of Christian nobility and martial piety across Europe.

Political Influence and Theological Debates

Bernard's influence extended far beyond monastic walls. When a schism rent the Church following the death of Pope Honorius II in 1130, he emerged as a major proponent of Pope Innocent II, skillfully arguing for his legitimacy against the rival Antipope Anacletus II and helping to heal the rift. His intellectual rigor was also evident at the Second Council of the Lateran in 1139, where he vocalized sharp criticisms against the eminent theologian Peter Abelard. Moreover, Bernard was a fervent advocate for crusades, powerfully convincing many to join the cause, most notably through a famous and impassioned sermon at Vézelay in 1146. This sermon spurred participation in what would tragically become the unsuccessful Second Crusade.

Enduring Legacy and Canonization

The impact of Bernard of Clairvaux was recognized remarkably swiftly; he was canonized by Pope Alexander III just 21 years after his passing on August 20, 1153. Centuries later, in 1830, Pope Pius VIII further honored him by declaring him a Doctor of the Church, a title reserved for those whose writings and preachings have made a lasting and profound contribution to Catholic theology and doctrine.

The Second Crusade: Ambition, Defeat, and Unintended Victories

The Second Crusade, spanning from 1147 to 1150, represented Europe's second major large-scale military expedition to the Holy Land. Its primary catalyst was the devastating fall of the County of Edessa in 1144 to the forces of Zengi, a significant blow to the nascent Crusader presence. Edessa, established by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1098 during the First Crusade, held the distinction of being both the first Crusader state founded and, tragically, the first to fall.

Royal Leadership and Anatolian Challenges

Announced by Pope Eugene III, the Second Crusade marked a significant shift, as it was the first of these expeditions to be directly led by reigning European monarchs: Louis VII of France and Conrad III of Germany, alongside numerous other prominent European nobles. Their formidable armies embarked on separate marches across Europe, but upon crossing Byzantine territory into Anatolia, both forces suffered decisive and separate defeats at the hands of the formidable Seljuk Turks. Contemporary accounts, including the main Western Christian source Odo of Deuil and various Syriac Christian texts, controversially suggested that Byzantine Emperor Manuel I Komnenos intentionally hindered the crusaders' progress, even allegedly ordering Turkish attacks. However, modern historical analysis largely refutes this as a fabrication by Odo, who viewed the Byzantine Empire with suspicion, and notes Emperor Manuel lacked any clear political motive for such sabotage.

Setbacks in the East, Success in the West

Despite their arduous journeys, Louis and Conrad, with the remnants of their once-mighty armies, eventually reached Jerusalem. There, in 1148, they participated in an ill-conceived and disastrous attack on Damascus, a Muslim stronghold, which ultimately ended in their ignominious retreat. This eastern campaign was a resounding failure for the crusaders and a clear victory for the Muslims, profoundly influencing the eventual fall of Jerusalem and directly contributing to the call for the Third Crusade at the close of the 12th century. Yet, amidst the strategic failures in the Holy Land, the Second Crusade witnessed significant, albeit localized, successes elsewhere. The most prominent example occurred in 1147, when a powerful combined force of 13,000 Flemish, Frisian, Norman, English, Scottish, and German crusaders, en route by ship from England to the Holy Land, diverted to assist a smaller (7,000-strong) Portuguese army. Together, they successfully captured Lisbon, decisively expelling its entrenched Moorish occupants and marking a vital victory for the Reconquista on the Iberian Peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Bernard and the Second Crusade

Who was Saint Bernard of Clairvaux?

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux was a highly influential Burgundian abbot and a leading figure in the Cistercian monastic movement, known for revitalizing Benedictine monasticism in the 12th century. He was also a significant political and theological voice in medieval Europe.

What were Bernard's major contributions?

Bernard founded Clairvaux Abbey, helped draft the Rule of the Knights Templar, advocated for Pope Innocent II during a papal schism, criticized Peter Abelard, and famously preached to recruit for the Second Crusade.

What was the primary cause of the Second Crusade?

The Second Crusade (1147–1150) was launched in direct response to the fall of the County of Edessa, the first Crusader state, to Zengi's forces in 1144.

Why did the Second Crusade fail in the East?

The crusade in the East largely failed due to separate defeats of the French and German armies by the Seljuk Turks in Anatolia and an ill-advised, unsuccessful attack on Damascus. Leadership issues and logistical challenges also played a role.

Did the Second Crusade achieve any successes?

Yes, while failing in the Holy Land, a significant success occurred in the West: a combined force of crusaders helped the Portuguese army capture Lisbon from its Moorish occupants in 1147, a key victory in the Reconquista.