Dealings with God

Blasphemy could be a serious business in early-modern Europe, and those judged to have cursed, abused or denied God could in some cases find themselves on trial for their lives. Whilst such attitudes may appear draconian to modern eyes, it is clear that in the past, blasphemy was regarded as a very real threat to society. Concentrating on the city of Zurich, this study examines the cultural and theological aspects of blasphemy in order to better understand exactly why this should be, and to illuminate the diverse and sometimes contradictory dynamics at work. The book explores the political, social and individual nature of religion; how these interact in cases of blasphemy, and how in turn the authorities dealt with them. On the most prosaic level this means understanding blasphemy as a denial of God, and thus the denial of a social and cultural system that claimed direct divine sanction. In a world without the sophisticated means of social control used to regulate modern society, religion formed the bedrock of social stability and the justification for unequal distribution of power and wealth. Beyond the purely political, however, the study also engages with the theological aspects of blasphemy, looking at the legacy of Zwingli and Bullinger, two of the most influential figures in the shaping of Reformed Zurich. By studying their attitudes, and the theological traditions they drew upon, and comparing these with the interpretations and actions of magistrates, pastors and city councillors, fascinating insights into the multiple meanings of blasphemy are put forth. By providing such a broad overview of the issue of blasphemy, linking the theological, cultural and social issues, this book provides a fascinating insight into a crucial, but often misunderstood aspect of early-modern society. The conclusions reached not only offer a much fuller understanding of the situation in Zurich, but have resonance for all historians of Reformation Europe.