Roots of Reform: Contextual Interpretation of Church Fittings in Norfolk During the English Reformation

Roots of Reform explores the impact of the English Reformation on public worship in Norfolk, England, by analyzing medieval and early modern church fittings. It suggests that the Reformation's Bible-centric component and visual continuity contributed to its success, transforming the religious identity of England and enabling traditionalists to continue their religious experience in a traditional context. Post-Reformation innovations included the use of vernacular Biblical text and secular heraldry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 10 June 2021
Publisher: Archaeopress

Roots of Reform delves into the profound impact of the English Reformation by conducting a comprehensive analysis of medieval and early modern church fittings preserved in parish churches across the county of Norfolk, England. Through an interdisciplinary approach that combines archaeological investigation with written records, the study unveils a deeper and more nuanced understanding of public worship during this transformative period. By gathering data from both rural and urban parish churches, the research offers a regional perspective on addressing issues related to visuality, space, and identity. The selection of church fittings is based on their liturgical significance and their propensity to feature decorative iconography, including baptismal fonts, screens, wall paintings, and sculptures.

In a groundbreaking study, this research demonstrates for the first time that the Bible-centric component of Protestant theology played a pivotal role in the success of the Reformation. By examining the intricate details of church fittings, the research reveals how visual continuity enabled an entire generation to maintain their religious traditions in a familiar context, despite moderate alterations to liturgy and a comprehensive transformation of doctrine. This criterion facilitated a smooth transition, as liturgical continuity and selective iconoclasm forged a new physical religious environment that retained enough elements to appease traditionalists. Furthermore, an assessment of post-Reformation innovations reveals a preference for using vernacular Biblical text as a prominent decorative element, accompanied by an increase in the use of secular heraldry and commemoration directly on church fittings.

The English Reformation, a pivotal period in European history, left a lasting legacy that continues to shape religious practices and beliefs to this day. Roots of Reform provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of this transformative era by shedding light on the role of church fittings in shaping religious identity and practices. Through its meticulous analysis and regional perspective, the study offers a fresh perspective on the complex interplay between theology, visual culture, and societal change.

Weight: 674g
Dimension: 291 x 204 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789697667