What was the Great Schism?

The Great Schism refers to a significant division within the Catholic Church that resulted in multiple claimants to the papacy, specifically occurring from 1378 to 1417. This period was marked by the election of rival popes in Rome and Avignon, leading to confusion and division among Christians in Europe. The schism arose from political and spiritual disagreements, as different factions supported various candidates for the papacy. It illustrated the complex interplay between religious authority and political power during the Middle Ages, as secular rulers often took sides, further complicating the situation. Understanding the Great Schism is crucial to grasp the broader context of church politics and the eventual calls for reform that shaped later developments in Christianity.