Crash Course European History: The Catholic Reformation

Introduction

• Host: John Green
• Previous focus: Religion, innovation amidst warfare, the rise of capitalism, and systems of oppression.
• Current focus: Catholic Reformation or Counter-Reformation.

Background

• Historians previously linked Protestantism with the rise of capitalism.
• Catholic Church's response to Protestantism was the Counter-Reformation.

Reform under Pope Paul III

• Lived lavishly and engaged in corrupt practices.
• Recognized the need for Church reform due to external pressures.
• Council of Trent (1545-1563): Assembled to halt Protestant momentum.
  • Meetings lasted 18 years, spanning three papacies.
  • No compromise with Protestantism.

Actions and Decrees

• Expanded the Inquisition to target Protestants and heresies.
• Affirmed transubstantiation and centrality of seven sacraments.
• Clergy celibacy and combination of faith and good works for salvation.
• Established seminaries for priest training.
• Introduced the Papal Index: List of forbidden books.
• Further regulation of marriages.

Ignatius of Loyola and the Jesuits

• Spanish nobleman who founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1540.
• Operated like a military organization with extensive training and discipline.
• Founded schools combining humanistic and religious education.
• Global mission to spread Catholicism and establish international connections.

Global Influence of the Jesuits

• Adapted strategies to local cultures and languages.
• Created reports that contributed to globalization beyond religion.
• Acted as industrial spies in areas such as porcelain production.

Notable Figures and Art

• Saint Teresa of Avila: Spanish mystic known for intense devotion and writings.
• Baroque Art and Architecture:
  • Emphasized emotions and divine majesty.
  • Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Artemisia Gentileschi as key figures.
  • Baroque music induced awe through complexity and emotional depth.

Conclusion

• Reformation and Counter-Reformation questioned human existence, faith, and effective human life.
• Next topic: Witchcraft, shamans, magic, and alchemy in early modern Europe.