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Handout #113

The recognition of the University of Paris by Pope Gregory IX (1231 A.D.)

Paris, mother of sciences, shines with a precious splendor, thanks to those who learn there and those who teach. There they prepare for the army of Christ the armour of faith, the sword of the Spirit and the other arms which proclaim the praise of Christ ...

We grant to the masters and students the power to make wise regulations about the methods and times of courses and discussions and about a suitable form of dress; who should give the lectures, at what hour, and what author to choose; about the fixing of wages and the power to expel those who break these rules. If by chance, wages are withheld or if you are offended and done serious wrong, you will be allowed to suspend courses 'until you have appropriate recompense ...

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