John Calvin. The reformer of Geneva

Originally published in 2005 and reissued for the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birth in 2009, this book is a precise account of the life and work of the Franco-Genevan reformer. It pays particular attention to his family origins, his formative years, and the path he took upon becoming one of the "devout humanists" of his native country. Tourn describes Calvin as a humanist lawyer whose fondness for classical and sacred letters greatly contributed to relaunching the religious and cultural project of the Protestant Reformation in the cities where he lived. The strong conflicts he faced before being recognized as the one who consolidated the Reformation are also presented, particularly from the publication of his magnum opus, the Institutes of the Christian Religion, the same year he first arrived in Geneva (1536). His time in Strasbourg and his apprenticeship alongside Martin Bucer marked a crucial stage in the development of his work.

Geneva, where he carried out his most renowned work, came to be seen as the "Protestant Rome." His intention to refound the church in a socio-political environment dominated by wealthy families is also highlighted. "Reforming a city" was the challenge he faced and successfully overcame despite strong opposition he experienced for several years. Tourn brilliantly explains how he modified the status of the religious community and how he faced debates with people like Sebastian Castellio, the so-called "libertines," and Michael Servetus, as part of his work to forge a new city through various religious, educational, and academic projects. This work is an excellent introduction to the life and work of Calvin, who has been largely misunderstood by both allies and adversaries; the former, in their eagerness to vindicate him, and the latter, in their desire to emphasize his shortcomings and excesses. Like any relevant historical figure, this person deserves a more measured reading and, above all, one based on more solid analyses like this one.

Page: 98

Dimensions: 15.3 x 22.7 x 0.8 cm

ISBN: 9788494452772