What did pope Gregory VII do to Henry IV as a result to the controversy?

Pope Gregory VII excommunicated Henry IV in 1076 as a response to the Investiture Controversy, which arose over the appointment of bishops and the authority of the church versus the monarchy. This excommunication effectively released Henry's subjects from their loyalty to him, leading to a significant loss of power and support. In a dramatic display of penance, Henry later sought forgiveness by standing in the snow outside the Pope's castle for three days before being reconciled. This conflict highlighted the struggle between church and state during the medieval period.