The Oxford History of British and Irish Catholicism, Volume III: Relief, Revolution, and Revival, 1746-1829

The third volume of The Oxford History of British and Irish Catholicism covers the period from 1746 to 1829, examining the decline of Jacobitism, the easing of penal legislation, the French Revolution, and the passage of emancipation. It also explores the expansion of Catholic infrastructure and changes in Catholic practice, as well as the international dimensions of British and Irish Catholicism. The volume addresses the literary, intellectual, and cultural expressions of Catholicism in Britain and Ireland, including the Catholic Enlightenment and the shifting expression of belief through music and material culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 02 October 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The third volume of The Oxford History of British and Irish Catholicism delves into a comprehensive examination of the historical era spanning from the Jacobite army's defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746 to the implementation of Catholic emancipation in 1829. This extensive volume is divided into two parts, each offering a distinct perspective on the subject matter.

In the first part, the authors provide a chronological overview that traces the decline of Jacobitism, the easing of penal legislation that targeted Catholics, the profound impact of the French Revolution, the ongoing debates regarding the place of Catholics in the post-Union state, and, notably, the culmination of the mass mobilization of Irish Catholics that ultimately led to the passage of emancipation. This section serves as a foundational framework for understanding the political history of the period.

However, the true significance of this historical era can only be fully appreciated when considered in the broader context of the transformations that occurred in the later eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. The second part of the volume delves into these broader transformations, highlighting the expansion of Catholic infrastructure, including pastoral structures, chapel buildings, elementary education, and financial resources. This period also witnessed significant changes in Catholic practice, such as liturgical reforms and increased devotion among the faithful.

While the growing infrastructure and more public profession of Catholicism took place in a society that still harbored anti-Catholic sentiments, the volume also explores the accommodations and interactions that occurred between Catholics and non-Catholics in everyday life. It is important to note that the transformations of this period were not limited to national boundaries, as British and Irish Catholicism had international dimensions. The volume examines the British and Irish convents, colleges, friaries, and monasteries on the continent, particularly during the events of the 1790s when many institutions closed and new ones emerged at home. Furthermore, the international reach of British and Irish Catholicism extended beyond Europe as the British Empire expanded globally, and attention is given to the involvement of British and Irish Catholics in imperial expansion.

In conclusion, The Oxford History of British and Irish Catholicism: The Later Eighteenth and Early Nineteenth Centuries is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of a crucial period in British and Irish history. Through its detailed analysis and comprehensive coverage, this volume sheds light on the complex interplay of political, social, and religious factors that shaped the lives of Catholics during this transformative era. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich history of British and Irish Catholicism.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198843443