This electronic version has been made available under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) open access license. This book explores how conceptions of episcopacy (government of a church by bishops) shaped the identity of the bishops of France in the wake of the reforming Council of Trent (1545–63). It demonstrates how the episcopate, initially demoralised by the Wars of Religion, developed a powerful ideology of privilege, leadership and pastorate that enabled it to become a flourishing participant in the religious, political and social life of the ancien regime. The book analyses the attitudes of Tridentine bishops towards their office by considering the French episcopate as a recognisable caste, possessing a variety of theological and political principles that allowed it to dominate the French church.
Table of Content
Introduction 1. Catholic renewal and episcopal traditions in the sixteenth century 2. The most perfect state – French clerical reformers and episcopal status 3. Lower clergy versus bishops 4. Ecclesiastical monarchy or monarchies? 5. An uneasy alliance 6. Manuals and hagiography – Mirrors of French ideals? Conclusion Appendix A – Chronology of principal events Bibliography Index
About the author
William G. Naphy is Senior Lecturer in History and Head of Department at the University of Aberdeen
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