Papal Bull Quamvis perfidiam
Pope Clement VI issues the Papal Bull 'Quamvis perfidiam' condemning violence against Jews falsely blamed for the Black Death, amidst growing hysteria and persecution across Europe.
Setting
The Consistory Hall within the Papal Palace in Avignon, a grand chamber with high vaulted ceilings and intricate Gothic architecture. The room is adorned with rich tapestries depicting biblical scenes and the walls are lined with heavy wooden benches.
Characters
Pope Clement VI
primary
A man in his early 60s with a commanding presence, slightly corpulent from years of ecclesiastical luxury. His face is round and clean-shaven, with deep-set eyes that convey both wisdom and weariness. His hands are soft but strong, one resting on the papal bull while the other gestures as he speaks.
Cardinal de Périgord
primary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with sharp, intelligent features. His thin face is framed by neatly trimmed gray hair and a closely cropped beard. His piercing blue eyes convey both wisdom and a quiet intensity.
Senior Scribe
secondary
A middle-aged man with a lean, slightly hunched build from years of bending over manuscripts. His hands are ink-stained, and his sharp eyes, accustomed to fine details, are framed by small, round spectacles perched on his nose. His thinning grey hair is neatly trimmed, and his beard is short and well-kept.
Junior Scribe
secondary
A young man in his early twenties, slight of build with ink-stained fingers and a pallid complexion from long hours indoors. His dark hair is cropped short beneath a simple cap, and his eyes dart nervously around the room.
Papal Guard
background
A middle-aged man of sturdy build, standing at attention with a rigid posture. His weathered face is clean-shaven, and his piercing eyes betray a hint of discomfort. His hands are calloused from years of wielding a halberd, and a faint scar runs along his left cheekbone.
Dialog
Pope Clement VI
We decree this day, by apostolic authority, that no Christian shall raise hand against our Jewish subjects under pretext of this plague.
Cardinal de Périgord
Your Holiness, might we cite Matthew 25:40? 'Whatsoever you do unto the least of my brethren...'
Pope Clement VI
Indeed, good cardinal. Let it be written thus: 'For they too are creatures of God, and their slaughter is an offense against Divine Majesty.'
Junior Scribe
Domine, should the wording be stronger regarding... regarding the punishments?
Cardinal de Périgord
The bull must balance mercy with authority. Let it state clearly: 'Excommunication shall be the penalty for such violence.'
Pope Clement VI
And let it be known this applies to all - prince and pauper alike. The mob's fury is no excuse before God.
Junior Scribe
It shall be done, Reverendissime.