1. Excommunication: This was one of the most severe punishments, as it meant being cut off from the Catholic Church and its sacraments. Excommunicated individuals were considered outcasts and were denied basic rights and privileges. They could not receive communion, attend Mass, or hold any positions of responsibility in society.
2. Interdict: An interdict was a punishment imposed on a region or territory rather than an individual. It prohibited the performance of religious ceremonies, such as baptisms, marriages, and funerals. This could have severe consequences for the people living in the affected area, as it disrupted their religious lives and created a sense of fear and uncertainty.
3. Loss of Temporal Power: In some cases, the pope could use his influence to strip defiant rulers of their temporal power and authority. This could mean losing control of their lands, titles, and wealth. This was often done by encouraging rebellion among the ruler's subjects or by forging alliances with other powerful rulers.
4. Military Action: In extreme cases, the pope could call for a crusade or a holy war against those who defied him. This could result in military conflicts and even the loss of life for those who opposed the pope's authority.
It's important to note that the severity of the punishment depended on the nature of the defiance and the political and religious context of the time. In some cases, individuals might be able to negotiate with the pope or seek forgiveness to avoid the harshest consequences.