With reference to Source C and your own knowledge, clarify (make clear) why heresy resulted in such severe punishment. (4 marks)

Source C is not provided, so I'll answer based on general knowledge.

1. Threat to Religious Authority: Heresy was considered a severe crime because it directly challenged the religious authority, particularly the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages. The Church held significant power and influence, and any deviation from its teachings was seen as a threat to its authority and the societal order it maintained.

2. Threat to Social Order: The Church was not just a religious institution but also a social one. It had a significant role in maintaining social order. Heresy, by promoting beliefs that were different from the Church's teachings, was seen as a potential cause of social unrest or conflict.

3. Spiritual Consequences: The Church taught that heresy could lead to eternal damnation. This severe spiritual consequence was another reason why heresy was punished so harshly. The Church wanted to deter people from straying from its teachings and risking their eternal souls.

4. Political Reasons: Often, accusations of heresy were used for political reasons. Rulers and other powerful figures could accuse their enemies of heresy to discredit them and justify their punishment or execution. This made heresy a convenient tool for political manipulation.

Without Source C, this is a general explanation. The specifics might vary depending on the details in Source C.