History The Middle Ages Questions
The Inquisition played a significant role in medieval society as it was a powerful institution established by the Catholic Church to combat heresy. Its main purpose was to identify, prosecute, and eliminate individuals or groups who were deemed to be deviating from the teachings of the Church. The Inquisition had the authority to investigate, interrogate, and punish those accused of heresy, often through severe methods such as torture and execution. It aimed to maintain religious orthodoxy and ensure the dominance of the Catholic Church in medieval society. The Inquisition had a profound impact on shaping religious and social norms during the Middle Ages, instilling fear and promoting conformity among the population.