This image of Pope Benedict IX (d. 1056) does not do his reputation justice. He was put in power by a male relative at the young age of 20, and lived such an immoral life that he was forced to abdicate twice. He managed to worm his way back into power, serving as pope for three separate terms. One time he left because he wanted to marry his cousin, but insisted that he be paid first — essentially selling off his office. His detractors said that he had orgies at the Papal palace and had murdered people, but the source is partisan and our imaginations will have to do . . .
