Demonic Possession and Exorcism: In Early Modern France (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780415212656)

This is a highly original study of demon possession and the ritual of exorcism, both of which were rife in early modern times, and which reached epidemic proportions in France.

Catholics at the time believed that the Devil was everywhere present, in the rise of the heretics, in the activities of witches, and even in the bodies of pious young women. The rite of exorcism was intended to heal the possessed and show the power of the Church - but it generated as many problems as it resolved. Possessed nuns endured frequently violent exorcisms, exorcists were suspected of conjuring devils, and possession itself came to be seen as a form of holiness, elevating several women to the status of living saints.

Sarah Ferber offers a challenging study of one of the most intriguing phenomena of early modern Europe. Looking towards the present day, the book also argues that early modern conflicts over the Devil still carry an unexpected force and significance for Western Christianity.

Author: Sarah Ferber
ISBN-10: 0415212650
ISBN-13: 9780415212656
Publisher: Routledge
Language: English
Published: 05/27/2004
Pages: 240
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.80lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.08w x 0.53d