MARINUS

marinus, the name of two popes. marinus i., sometimes called martin ii., pope from 882 to 884, was the son of a tuscan priest, and entered the church at an early age, becoming a deacon about 862. three successive popes sent him as legate to constantinople, his mission in each case having reference to the controversy excited by photius (q.v.); and having become an archdeacon and a bishop, he also negotiated on behalf of pope john viii. with the emperor charles the fat. about the end of december 882 he succeeded john viii. as pope, but his election did not pass unchallenged either in eastern or in western europe. however, having secured his position, marinus restored formosus, cardinal-bishop of porto, and anathematized photius. this pope was on friendly terms with the english king, alfred the great. he died in may 884, and was succeeded by adrian iii.