Catholic Revival in the Age of the Baroque

This book seeks to explain the origins of the Catholic identity of the population of southwest Germany between 1550 and 1750. Many studies of this subject credit rulers and church leaders with creating and enforcing religious identity in Germany "from above." In contrast, this study argues that there were important local and religious reasons why people came to consider themselves loyal Catholics; and in order to understand the origins of Catholic identity, it examines the nature of "Baroque Catholicism"--including the significance of pilgrimages, processions, confraternities, and other religious ceremonies.

"It is to Forster's great credit that he allows all parties and factors to be significant and does not seek to impose his own pattern on the whole...If this volume parallels Forster's previous study of contemporary and nearby Bavaria, this enhances the value of both books. Academic libraries, and perhaps parishes with roots in Southwet Germany, will want to add this useful volume." Catholic Library World

A study of 'Catholic identity' in southwest Germany in the two centuries after the Reformation.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 245-256) and index.