Hierarchy and Social Networks in Medieval Castile: the Provision of Ecclesiastical Benefices within the Cathedral Chapter of Burgos (1390-1440)

Abstract

This article is intended to study the role played by the Cathedral chapter of Burgos in the shaping of the Castilian ecclesiastical hierarchy at the beginning of the fifteenth century. By analysing the provision of ecclesiastical offices and benefices is possible to clarify the social networks which were made by some of the cathedral members. These social networks facilitated the diocesan and foreign influence of the Burgos cathedral members over the spheres of Castilian monarchy and the Roman Papacy. At the same time, they contributed to make of the Burgos Cathedral chapter an important link in the chain of cursus honorum of the Castilian ecclesiastical men.