The Church in an Age of Danger Parsons and Parishioners, 1660}}}1740 [Hardcover]

A study of popular religion in early modern England, focusing on the diocese of Salisbury.This book looks at popular religion in early modern England, using detailed accounts of local conflicts to bring the religion of ordinary people to life. Unlike other studies, it examines not magical beliefs but orthodox religion. It counters the view that popular and elite culture in Europe and Britain became polarised by showing how the gentry and people co-operated in regulating religion. But while the clergy did not deserve their poor reputation, their defensiveness also prevented them from fulfilling popular religious needs.This book looks at popular religion in early modern England, using detailed accounts of local conflicts to bring the religion of ordinary people to life. Unlike other studies, it examines not magical beliefs but orthodox religion. It counters the view that popular and elite culture in Europe and Britain became polarised by showing how the gentry and people co-operated in regulating religion. But while the clergy did not deserve their poor reputation, their defensiveness also prevented them from fulfilling popular religious needs.This book looks at popular religion in early modern England, using detailed accounts of local conflicts to bring the religion of ordinary people to life. Unlike other studies, it examines not magical beliefs but orthodox religion. It counters the view that popular and elite culture in Europe and Britain became polarized by showing how the gentry and people cooperated in regulating religion. But while the clergy did not deserve their poor reputation, their defensiveness also prevented them from fulfilling popular religious needs.1. Introduction; 2. Clerical profiles; 3. Arenas for conflict; 4. The management of disputes; 5. Pastoral care; 6. Tithes and religious conflict; 7. The nonconformist threat; 8. Popular observance; 9. Matters of life and death; 10. Singing and religious revival; 11. Conclusion. ...a book to enjoy arguing l£W