PIMSPontifical Institute
of
Mediaeval Studies

In this presentation, I consider Durandus’ definition and classification of sacraments, the description he provides of baptism, his theology of penance, and the liturgical form he provides for solemn penance. However, historically described liturgies were not always practiced as described. Thus, I consider the function of imagined liturgical pasts and scholarship which suggests Durandus’ depiction of solemn penance to be such an imagined past. I predominantly utilize a liturgical methodology and utilize sources from canon law to show Durandus’ legal mind at work in his liturgical writings.