Catharism was a religion that persisted through out Montaillou. They had great
beliefs about God, the Virgin Mary, and life in itself. They viewed Mary spiritually.
Some Cathers viewed her differently from others. Some considered her mother of the
earth and cults were founded in honor of her name. Different patron saints were
acknowledged through out the calendar year. Sacraments were made to these patrons and
rituals were celebrated for their memories.
Homage to the twelve apostles was also greatly celebrated in Montaillou. Each of
the twelve apostles had a different region that celebrated their memory . There were also
churches built in their names. St. Peter was the most popular amongst the Apostles. All
saints day was a very important event that the citizens in Montaillou celebrated.
Baptism was universally practiced and reaffirmed the belief of Catharism. In the
Cathar belief, everyone is born with original sin.
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Montaillou: Cathars and Catholics in a French Vill...
Montsegur desde arribaThe sacrament of Baptism paid for the
original sin of the person being baptized. In the Cathar belief, everyone is born with
original sin. The people of Montaillou also associated forgiveness of sins with confession.
Citizens ate communion and went confession at least once every year.
Prophecies about the end of the world also spread within Catharism. Many
believed that there one day would be heaven on earth. Cathars waited for judgment day
and held the notion of heaven and hell. Anti Jewish sentiment was also prevalent in
Montaillou.
In conclusion, Catharism was a belief that began in Montaillou in the thirteenth
century. It kept updating itself when newer doctrines were found. Christianity was a great
influence in the religion and believers of Catharism borrowed many beliefs of Orthodox
Roman religion and applied it to their religion. Catharism effected people's lives
tremendously. It made them make sacrifices...