A historiographical reading of the pontificate of Benedict XV (1914-1922) following the opening of the Vatican Archives

Abstract

In the quarter century following Spoleto, no substantial developments had been made until the documentation relative to Benedict XV at the Vatican Archives was made available in 1985. Following the enthusiasm that normally accompanies such openings, it remains to be ascertained what use historians have truly made of the now available material. As will be shown the historiographical analysis is now characterized not by the quantity, but rather by the quality of the studies produced. There is a clear continuity with the themes that have already captured the attention of historians in this field. Interest continues to be determined by the nationalistic concerns, especially as regards the diplomatic relationship between the Holy See and the states during the war, and with the newly formed states that now arise from its ashes. Given their specific nature, most studies are published as part of collective works.