Puritanism in North-west England : A Regional Study of the Diocese of Chester to 1642

When originally published in 1972 this book – chiefly thematic in approach and based on the author’s doctoral thesis - was hailed as the first regional study and micro analysis of the development of English Puritanism to appear in print. Leading scholars like Patrick Collinson welcomed its appearance. Internal contrasts within the huge, sprawling diocese of Chester and its large parishes are drawn out as are comparisons with the religious situation in other parts of the country. The ways in which, for much of the period under review, Puritanism in this region was actively supported, and not persecuted, by the authorities is a key distinctive feature which receives careful attention. So do the activism of puritan laity and gender dynamics. Puritan clergy provide only part of the story which is documented in these pages though often it is most conspicuous (not least because clergy tend to be the principal narrators). There is much here on women’s distinctive roles and contributions within households and congregations and as patrons. Analysis is offered of the reading habits of puritan clergy and laymen as a major example of the ways in which puritans in this region were closely connected with the wider world. Contributions made to Puritanism in this diocese by clergy from outside it are also assessed. The ways in which individual and corporate patronage was brought to bear in favour of Puritanism receives a whole chapter of its own. Tensions and conflicts between puritans and Roman Catholics in the North West are carefully reviewed in what was in effect a frontier region. Originally published in 1972, this book was the very first regional study of Puritanism to appear in print, and it has remained a widely influential text.Puritanism in north-west England brings out the many internal contrasts within the huge, sprawling diocese of Chester and the large parishes within it, and is alert to comparisons with other parts of England. One of its most distinctive features was the way in which for much of the period under review – for expedient reasons – Puritanism in this region was backed, rather than persecuted, by the ecclesiastical and civil authorities as a bulwark against entrenched Roman Catholicism. The ongoing struggles between Puritanism and Roman Catholicism are systematically documented, partly by means of parish case studies. The respective, interlocking roles of puritan clergy, laity and patrons are carefully considered. Lay activism and gender dynamics receive extended treatment; there is much here on Puritanism's inner momentum and on women's history. The educational background of the clergy, especially their shared university experience, is analysed, as are the reading habits of clergy and laity alike.Though much further research on Puritanism has taken place since 1972, the approach adopted in this study and its findings retain their validity and relevance. Puritanism in north-west England Contents Preface Abbreviations Dedication l. The context and distribution of puritanism Basic geographical and religious features of the diocese The distribution of puritanism The attitude of the authorities 2. The role of the clergy The forms of clerical nonconformity in worship Preaching and prayer The godly discipline Preachers from outside the diocese The educational background of the preachers The brotherhood of the preachers The clergy and the 'puritan movement' 3. The role of the laity The forms of lay nonconformity in worship The enthusiasm for preaching Conventicles and household devotions Lay independence; the layman as proselytiser The part played by women 4. The role of patrons Aristocracy Gentry Merchants and tradesmen Women Municipalities The godly discipline: the alliance between patrons andpreachers The scope and results of patronage 5. Catholic and puritan Puritan versus Catholic Parochial studies of the conflict Exhorting the magistrate The nature of the conflict 6. Conclusion Appendix: the university background of the preachers Bibliography Index A rounded, deeply researched study of the structures and dynamics of Puritanism in North-West England in the Elizabethan and early Stuart decades. -- .