Christianity in the West 1400-1700 [Paperback]

A study not of the institution of the Church but of Christianity itself, this book explores the Christian people, their beliefs, and their way of life, providing a new understanding of Western Christianity at the time of the Reformation. Bossy begins with a systematic exposition of traditional or pre-Reformation Christianity, exploring the forces that tended to undermine it, the characteristics of the Protestant and Catholic regimes that superseded it, and the fall-out that resulted from its disintegration.

Bossy's survey of late medieval religion is magisterial. He discusses theology and church law with consummate ease, has an acute appreciation of the liturgy, and convincingly depicts people freely practicing a faith they understood. --American Historical Review

Vivid and memorable...will help correct previous portrayals that paid too much attention to ecclesiastical writings. --The Christian Century

Sensitive, subtle, and erudite analysis...[A] major achievement in opening our eyes...to dimensions that conventional historiography has hidden from view. --Times Literary Supplement

A fine work of synthetic analysis. It should stimulate the reflection of any reader concerned about the nature of the social and religious changes prompted by the Lutheran and Catholic reforms. --Pacific Theological Review

Challenging, thought-provoking...[T]here is much to inform and interest. --Wilson Library Bulletin