John Calvin and Italy

by Lucia Felici

Reconstructing the intricate relations established between Calvin and the Italian reformed movement, this book explores Calvin’s deep interest in the evangelization of Italy, and the possible defeat of his primary enemy, the Church of Rome. It demonstrates that in spite of his deep mistrust of Italians’ ’opportunistic ways’ and intellectual independence, Calvin became a figurehead in Italy, not only for those who joined his Church but also for all religious non-conformists. As such, an intricate and often conflicting dialogue emerged between the two parties, that was to prove of great importance for the Reformation movement both in Geneva and Italy. Moreover the book underlines how, especially in the 1560s, Geneva’s reformed Church became a centre of Italian immigration and a Cynosure for reformed communities in the peninsula. Through a careful analysis of documents and existing bibliography, the book promotes a greater understanding of an important aspect of the Reformation studies that has not yet been fully explored, whilst also providing a concise summary for an academic and cultured readership. This book is an English translation of 'Giovanni Calvino e l'Italia' (Claudiana, 2010)

182 pages, Hardcover

Published December 28, 2017