Shorn Head and Episcopal Power: The Beginnings of Clerical Tonsure

Abstract Clerical tonsure may have emerged independently in different regions and its symbolism could vary, but wherever it appeared it was a clear and inextricable sign of the members of the clergy. It was a mark of privilege, but unlike dress it could not be easily concealed or quickly removed, and so it identified clerics whether they wanted it or not. This made the tonsure an instrument of control over clerical behavior. For bishops, such an instrument became particularly useful when local churches spread throughout the countryside. The clergy of these communities, sometimes distant from the city, remained subject to bishops who, however, had few other means of overseeing them. The sign that singled them out helped to secure their behavior and allegiance.