Church and Society in Eighteenth-Century France: Volume 1: The Clerical Establishment and its Social Ramifications

Explore the intricate dynamics of religion and society in John McManners' compelling work, Church and Society in Eighteenth-Century France: Volume 1: The Clerical Establishment and its Social Ramifications. Published by Oxford University Press in 1999, this comprehensive paperback spans an impressive 836 pages, delving into the profound influence of the Church on French national life from the grandeur of Versailles to the tumult of the scaffold.

This volume meticulously examines the relationships between Church and State, detailing the wealth and power of the Church and its implications for society. Readers will gain insights into the structure of dioceses, parishes, and monastic life, while also understanding the vocation and lifestyle of the clergy, which were deeply intertwined with the fabric of social living.

Ideal for those interested in European history, cultural studies, and the evolution of Church authority, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of 18th-century France.