After examining the section on Gregory the Great written by Madigan, it is relatively easy to see that he holds the image of Gregory the Great in very high esteem. Most of the words that Madigan uses to describe Gregory are not only positive, but also extremely uplifting and full of praise. As a devoted roman citizen, Gregory was the first monk to become the pope of Rome. According to Madigan, he was passionate about monasticism, had high levels of holiness and impressive leadership skills. During his papacy, he desired to see a restored version of the Roman society; one built upon the ideas of a biblical and monastic life.

Madigan touched on a lot of high achievements that Gregory the Great had accomplished. Madigan made it clear that Gregory had a major role in bringing monks to the forefront of essential activity in the church during medieval times. Gregory set up a road map of sorts to help future popes gain respect and influence during their papacy. But even before Gregory was the Roman pope in 590, he was bishop of Rome, using his leadership skills to help his city during a difficult time. He was later chosen as one of seven deacons of Rome, and then papal ambassador in 579. He led the church in times of great crisis during the plague, and was called the “defender of the city” for leading the military and caring for refugees, when the barbarians attacked. He was more than a spiritual leader, because he also became a great secular leader to the whole city of Rome. Because of his mighty accomplishments, he became one of two popes to ever be given the title of “the Great” (Magnus).

There are many consistencies when looking at Madigan’s view of Gregory the Great, and when examining Gregory’s letter to Dominic, the bishop of Carthage. Most of the consistencies come from the fact that Madigan describes Gregory as a great leader, and as “the Consul of God.” The characteristics of a great leader are found all throughout Gregory’s letter. He perfectly reflects the “Consul of God,” by lifting God’s name up constantly in the letter, and letting Dominic know it is their duty to tell the church about the end of the world and to console them, since he was appointed by God to do His work in this world. When it comes to thinking about his people, he always puts them first by encouraging them in their faith, telling them that there are much better things ahead eternally, even though the situation on earth is painful. Another sign of a great leader is seeing devotion to his values. Gregory is very devoted to God and his religion, as seen throughout the whole letter by all of the references to the Bible and the truths that come out of it, as well references to God being omnipotent.

In regards to the context of this letter, Gregory is writing to Dominic during a time of great crisis. Many people, including Gregory the Great, believe that the world is coming to an end because so many horrible things like the plague and attacks on his city are happening on earth. Passages in the Bible, like Revelation 6 are thought to have influenced Gregory’s writing, because they speak of conquering of lands, famine, disease, and of large amounts of people dying by sword. So Gregory writes this letter to give Dominic hope and also to instruct Dominic to spread the word of hope and better things to come to his people. Gregory wants Dominic, his people, and the city of Rome to know that although they deserve even more suffering than they are being given, they should be thankful and trust that the Lord will reward them according to their good deeds and sacrifices to Him.