Explore the profound impact of Aelia Pulcheria, a fifth-century Roman empress who revolutionized Catholicism and significantly influenced the veneration of the Virgin Mary. Discover how this teenage girl consolidated power through a vow of virginity and made shocking statements of authority that challenged religious norms. Learn about the conflict with Archbishop Nestorius and the violent debates surrounding the Virgin Mary's role in Christianity. Examine the theological discussions on reconciling Christ's humanity and divinity, and understand how Pulcheria's actions led to a shift towards greater veneration of the Virgin Mary, forever altering Catholic practices and beliefs.