V. Der Dekretalenapparat Papst Innozenz’ IV. Ein bekannter Unbekannter

Abstract

Abstract The Apparatus on the Decretals by pope Innocent IV: A known unknown. Other than the usual approach which focuses on the juridical content of the famous decretal commentary, the present paper highlights its structural and formal features. Peculiarities include unusual methods of argumentation, striking disproportions in the attention given to individual decretals, increasing frequency of gaps due to rudimentary treatment of certain decretals and complete omission of others, a program of textual criticism halfway abandoned, a rich tradition, where some 30 early editions, ca. 160 medieval manuscripts and a mysterious originale remain without apparent connections, a daunting jungle of so called additiones. The paper, which asks many questions leaving them without answers, should nevertheless help to understand the incomparable commentary.