It received a different complexion from that of Pisa, through the presidency of the Emperor and the attendance of representatives from the chief nations.

At Constance the Papacy and the Roman Curia stood together, exposed to the hostile criticism of Europe.

The authority of a General Council was, after a sharp conflict, decreed superior to that of the Bishop of Rome.

Three Popes were forced to abdicate; and a fourth, Martin V., was elected.
[Footnote 17: The best account of the Councils will be found in Professor Creighton's admirable _History of the Papacy during the Reformation_, 2 vols.

Longmans.] The Council further undertook to deal with heresy and with the reform of the Church.