Meaning: Irving Babbitt, an influential literary critic and cultural commentator, made this statement as a reflection on the medieval social and political order. In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the historical context of the medieval period and the role of religion in shaping societal structures.

During the medieval era, which spanned roughly from the 5th to the 15th century, the Christian Church held immense power and influence over the lives of people in Europe. The concept of divine will, as mentioned in the quote, refers to the belief that all aspects of life were ultimately guided by the will of God. This notion permeated every layer of medieval society, from the political hierarchy to individual daily activities.

The pope, as the highest earthly representative of the Church, held a position of unparalleled authority. His declarations and decisions were considered to be of divine origin, and obedience to the papal authority was deeply ingrained in the social fabric. This subordination to the divine will and its earthly representatives formed the cornerstone of the medieval order, shaping the political, religious, and cultural landscape of the time.

Babbitt's use of the term "ultimate binding element" underscores the fundamental role of religious authority in maintaining social cohesion and order. In a society where the majority of the population adhered to Christianity, the concept of divine will served as a unifying force, providing a shared framework for understanding the world and one's place within it. This shared belief system acted as a cohesive agent, reinforcing the hierarchical structures and social norms that defined medieval life.

The hierarchical nature of medieval society was intricately linked to the idea of subordination to the divine will. Kings and nobles derived their authority, at least in part, from the perceived divine sanction bestowed upon them by the Church. Feudal relationships, which formed the basis of medieval land ownership and governance, were also imbued with religious connotations, as vassals pledged loyalty to their lords with oaths often sworn on religious relics or texts.

Furthermore, the influence of the Church extended beyond purely religious matters into the realms of law, education, and morality. The legal system was intertwined with religious doctrine, and the Church played a central role in administering justice. Education was primarily conducted within the framework of the Church, and the moral code espoused by Christianity permeated all aspects of life.

Babbitt's insight into the medieval order sheds light on the pervasive impact of religious ideology on the structuring of society. The subordination to the divine will and its earthly representatives not only provided a cohesive force but also served as a mechanism for social control and governance. The intertwining of religious and secular authority created a framework in which power, legitimacy, and moral guidance were deeply intertwined.

In conclusion, Irving Babbitt's quote encapsulates the centrality of religious authority in shaping the medieval social order. The concept of subordination to the divine will and its earthly representatives, particularly the pope, elucidates the profound influence of religion on the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the time. By understanding the role of religion as the ultimate binding element in the medieval era, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of medieval society and the enduring impact of religious institutions on human civilization.