After the debacle of the schismatic antipopes, the name of Benedict had some unpleasant associations, so it is understandable that no pope chose it for nearly 300 years. Then came Pietro Francesco Vincenzo Maria Orsini, a Dominican monk and teacher of philosophy.
Benedict XIII - 1724-1730
In May, 1724, after two months of consideration in the conclave to elect the next pope, Orsini was upset to see the tide of favorable opinion turning toward him. He tried everything he could to prevent his election and, once chosen, he even refused to yield, until his colleagues impressed upon him the difficulties that would ensue if they had to reopen the conclave and vote again. As pope, Benedict XIII was noted for simple living and scholarly interests, and he didn't involve himself much in secular politics.
Benedict XIV - 1740-1758
This Benedict was notable for intelligence and moderation at a time when the Catholic Church was frequently criticized by Enlightenment scholars. He promoted scientific learning and countenanced restraint when adding publications to the Index Librorum Prohibitorum (Index of Forbidden Books). Voltaire even dedicated his tragedy Mahomet to Benedict XIV.
Benedict XV - 1914-1922
Elected only a month after the first World War broke out, Benedict XV took a neutral stand and refused to condemn any of the participants, focusing on alleviating the suffering of war victims. Though he made serious efforts to establish peace, most of them came to nought. After the war, Benedict was not included in peace negotiations, but he did direct missionary work and manage to reestablish a relationship with Britain after a break of several hundred years.
Benedict XVI - 2005-?
Only time will tell if Joseph Ratzinger makes the name Pope Benedict XVI a memorable one.
