Born in 1150 in the coastal city of Amalfi, Peter of Capua the Elder became a significant figure in twelfth-century scholastic theology and ecclesiastical diplomacy. After completing his studies at the University of Paris, he rose through the Roman curia to serve as a cardinal, exercising influence as a papal legate throughout Europe before his death in 1214.
Academic Foundations and Early Career
Peter entered the cathedral of Amalfi in 1170 after taking minor orders. He subsequently attended the University of Bologna before moving to Paris in the 1180s to study theology and philosophy. During his time in Paris, he formed professional connections with key figures such as Stephen Langton and the future Pope Innocent III. His foundational writings, including Modus tractandi and the Summae, were produced during this period. Upon joining the Roman curia under Pope Clement III, he taught theology and law while authoring the encyclopedia Alphabetum de arte sermocinandi.
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In 1193, Pope Celestine III appointed Peter cardinal-deacon of Santa Maria in Via Lata. His responsibilities quickly expanded to include high-level diplomatic missions. In 1195, he served as a papal legate in Apulia and Calabria to ensure the kingdom of Sicily remained aligned with church interests. By 1196, he was dispatched to Bohemia and Poland to enforce church reforms. His rigorous approach, which included demanding the re-ordination of clergy and imposing clerical celibacy, faced significant resistance, including a reported attempt on his life in Prague.
Diplomacy in France and Final Years
In late 1198, Innocent III commissioned Peter to France and Burgundy to broker peace between Philip II of France and Richard I of England, while simultaneously preaching the Fourth Crusade. Despite a tense reception at the English court, Peter successfully negotiated a five-year truce in 1199. He spent his final years actively involved in the papal court, participating in the 1198 election and fulfilling various administrative duties until his death in Rome on 30 August 1214. He was buried at Santa Maria in Aracoeli.
Fast facts
- Born: 1150, Amalfi
- Died: 30 August 1214, Rome
- Education: University of Bologna, University of Paris
- Primary Occupations: writer, diplomat, priest, bishop, philosopher
- Cardinal Titles: Santa Maria in Via Lata, San Marcello al Corso
- Notable Works: Modus tractandi, Summae, Alphabetum de arte sermocinandi
- Burial Site: Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Questions readers ask
Why is he called the Elder?
The name distinguishes him from his nephew, Peter of Capua the Younger, who was also a Parisian-educated cardinal.
What was his role in the Fourth Crusade?
He was tasked by Innocent III with preaching the Crusade and mediating a truce between the kings of France and England to clear the path for the campaign.
