Conclave 1559: Ippolito d'Este and the Papal Election of 1559

In Conclave 1559, Mary Hollingsworth provides a compelling and meticulously crafted reconstruction of the longest and most taxing of sixteenth-century papal elections, which divided moderates from conservatives and the adherents of three national factions with mutually incompatible interests. Drawing on the detailed account books left by Ippolito d Este, the book offers remarkable insights into the daily lives and concerns of the forty-seven men locked up for four months in the Vatican.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2022
Publisher: Head of Zeus

In the captivating city of Rome, a web of intrigue, double-dealing, and conspiracy unfolds, revealing the intricate interplay between secular and religious power. This captivating narrative delves into the fascinating world of papal conclaves, where the fate of the Catholic Church hangs in the balance.

As the long, hot Italian summer comes to an end, the life of a rigidly orthodox and profoundly unpopular pope draws to a close. The papacy of Paul IV has been marked by the establishment of the Roman Inquisition, the Index of Prohibited Books, a steadfast refusal to engage in dialogue with Protestants, and the ghettoization of Rome's Jewish community.

On September 5, 1559, as the grand doors of the Vatican's Sala Regia are ceremoniously locked, the future of the Catholic Church hangs in the balance. In this pivotal moment, Mary Hollingsworth presents a compelling and meticulously crafted reconstruction of the longest and most taxing of sixteenth-century papal elections.

The conclave of 1559 was a complex tapestry of fault lines, dividing not only moderates from conservatives but also the followers of three national factions with mutually incompatible interests. France and Spain, both seeking to extend their power in Italy and beyond, had very different visions for the new pope. Similarly, the Italian cardinals themselves held diverse opinions on who should ascend to the papal throne.

To unravel the mysteries of this historic conclave, Hollingsworth relies on the detailed account books left by Ippolito d'Este, one of the participating cardinals. Conclave 1559 offers a remarkable glimpse into the daily lives and concerns of the forty-seven men who were confined for some four months within the walls of the Vatican.

Through these meticulous records, readers are transported back to the cramped quarters, the tense negotiations, and the power struggles that characterized the conclave. We witness the personal dramas of the cardinals, their rivalries, and their secret alliances, as they navigate the treacherous waters of politics and religion.

The book also sheds light on the broader political context of the sixteenth century, with Europe embroiled in a constant state of conflict and intrigue. The papacy, as the ultimate symbol of religious authority, played a crucial role in shaping the course of history. The choices made by the cardinals during the conclave had far-reaching consequences for the Catholic Church, Europe, and the world at large.

Conclave 1559 is a highly enjoyable and thrilling read that will captivate readers with its rich historical detail and vivid portrayal of characters. Hollingsworth has peeled back the veil of secrecy surrounding papal conclaves, providing a fresh perspective on this fascinating period of history.

In conclusion, Conclave 1559 is a must-read for anyone interested in history, religion, or politics. Mary Hollingsworth's meticulously researched and compelling narrative offers a unique insight into the world of papal elections and the power struggles that shaped the sixteenth century. This book is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of history to shed light on the complexities of our past.

Weight: 256g
Dimension: 205 x 223 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800244740