Western History 88: What was the Counter Reformation?

The Counter Reformation represents the Catholic Church’s response to the Protestant Reformation. The response unfolded along several lines that included a defense of Catholic doctrine, a realignment in clerical structure, the establishment of new orders, a spiritual front and a political response.

A great emphasis was placed on a devotional life and a personal relationship with Christ but a harsher side manifested itself in the Roman Inquisition. The Council of Trent (1545-1563) called for the excommunication of Elizabeth I of England and the church also took a harsh stance against reformers such as Giordano Bruno.

At Trent the church reaffirmed the notion of Transubstantiation (where the bread and wine at the sacrament is believed to transform into the body and soul of Christ). The Roman Catechism was expanded to improve clerical knowledge. A greater focus on administration and church discipline was mandated.Numerous religious orders would emerge from the Counter Reformation of which the Jesuits with their emphasis on education (including education of girls) and missionary work would take center stage.

The Counter Reformation would impact the art and the Sciences. Baroque art in particular is believed to be an outgrowth of such novel developments. The Gregorian Calendar also has a Counter Reformation root of origin. Key players in the Counter Reformation include – Ignatius of Loyola, Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. Teresa is noted for her establishment of the Carmelite Order of Nuns. Ignatius of Loyola wrote the influential treatise Spiritual Exercises and John of the Cross was a leading Spanish mystical figure.

                                                                       Ignatius Loyola