Cathari - bon hommes

The Cathars (or Cathari) were people belonging to a medieval movement sometimes described as heretical, even ghnostic, sect of Christianity, sometimes described as simply non-Christian altogether.  Much of the historical actions appears to have occurred in Languedoc, a region in France.

The term Cathar comes from the Greek catharsis, relating to purity through purging.  It is thought the Cathar referred to themselves as bon hommes, or good men, or good Christians.


This is a panel by Berruguete (15th century) representing the disputation between St. Dominic and the Albigensians.  This debate is thought to have occurred in 1203.

The picture on the right depicts the Cathars being expelled from Carcassonne in 1209.

There is considerable intrigue associated with the Cathar.  In 1208 Pierre de Castelnau, sent by Innocent III to engage the Cathars, was murdered.  The Albigensian Crusade and aspects of the so-called "inquisition" followed this murder.






This is a rich and complex set of events, ideas, and people.  I suspect much evil and suffering were visited upon many during this time.  It is worth noting that the Cathars were said to be of the opinion that they wished to restore "original" Christianity.  I do not intend to use a broad brush for all who claim this and paint them with the same colors as the Cathars; nor do I condone the actions of the Roman Church herein.  As I said the events reflect a complexity of hearts and minds of real human beings.  This is a subject worthy of much more reflection.  The summary observation and assertion I offer is that true orthodoxy survives in spite of the failings of both institutions and populism.