Society and Culture in the Huguenot World, 1559-1685

Description

The Huguenots formed a privileged minority within early modern France. During the second half of the sixteenth century, they fought for freedom of worship in the French 'wars of religion' which culminated in the Edict of Nantes in 1598. The community was protected by the terms of the Edict for eighty-seven years until Louis XIV revoked it in 1685. The Huguenots therefore constitute a minority group tolerated by one of the strongest nations in early modern Europe, a country more often associated with the absolute power of the crown - in particular that of Louis XIV. This collection of essays explores the character and identity of the Huguenot movement by examining their culture and institutions, their patterns of belief and worship and their interaction with French state and society. The volume draws upon research by leading historians and specialists from across Europe and North America.

'There are no disappointments in the volume and many of the findings are here presented for the first time.' Elizabeth Tingle 'This is a very welcome volume ... for anyone interested in Protestantism, French (especially early absolutist) history or the concept of toleration in the early modern period this will be a most useful volume.' History '... a penetrating examination ... this excellent collection brings together an array of fresh perspectives with which to consider the complexities of Huguenot identity in early modern France. There can be little doubt that its readership, advanced undergraduates and researchers, will have much to absorb and debate.' Journal of Ecclesiastical History 'The impressive breadth and diversity of offerings in this excellent volume make it perhaps the best overview of Protestantism in early modern France currently available.' Sixteenth Century Journal