This article is dedicated to highlighting the strong historical-canonical interest that can be found in the theological production of the Carmelite master John Baconthorp (ca. 1290-1349), especially in the fourth book of his commentary on the sentences, called 'Quaestiones canonicae'. For example, a number of questions on papal power, infallibility and apostolic poverty are examined, in which Baconthorp fruitfully combines theology, historical research and canon law. In addition, particular attention is given to the debate on indulgences for the dead. In such debate the Carmelite theologian seems to reject the Dominican positions that affirm the validity of such indulgences and extend papal jurisdiction over purgatory, while preferring the positions of Cardinal Ostiense, who denies any exercise of the keys over purgatorial souls.
