Assessing the Memorandum
The memorandum must be understood and assessed in the light of several documents of the same period and in the context of the political situation in the region. At least eight documents challenge the veracity of the d’Arcis Memorandum.
There are other problems as well. All existing copies of the memorandum are unsigned and undated drafts. The copy at the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris includes a heading stating that it is a letter that Pierre intends to write. It is definitely a draft with Latin annotations in the margins. It is unlikely that it was ever sent to Pope Clement as no properly signed or sealed copies of the document can be found in the Vatican or Avignon archives. No document of Clement refers to it, suggesting it was never received. Numerous classicist and historians find the document questionable.
SCAVONE’s EXPLANATION NEEDED HERE
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The Fourth Crusade
Inevitable Warfare
Alexios and Alexios
Nicholas Mesarites
San Nicola of Casole
Nicholas of Otranto
The shroud may have been taken to Athens, then under French
Othon De La Roche
Geoffrey de Charney
Knights Templar
Vatican Secret Archives
Pierre d’Arcis, Bishop of Troyes
Assessing the Memorandum
Later History