The reformation of ritual: An interpretation of early modern Germany

Susan C. Karant-Nunn

Research output: Book/ReportBook

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

In The Reformation of Ritual Susan Karant-Nunn explores the function of ritual in early modern German society, and the extent to which it was modified by the Reformation. Employing anthropological insights, and drawing on extensive archival research, Susan Karant-Nunn outlines the significance of the ceremonial changes. This comprehensive study includes an examination of all major rites of passage: birth, baptism, confirmation, engagement, marriage, the churching of women after childbirth, penance, the Eucharist, and dying. The author argues that the changes in ritual made over the course of the century reflect more than theological shifts; ritual was a means of imposing discipline and of making the divine more or less accessible. Church and state cooperated in using ritual as one means of gaining control of the populace.

Original languageEnglish (US)
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Number of pages279
ISBN (Electronic)0203992490, 9781134829194
ISBN (Print)0415113377, 9780415443937
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2005
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Arts and Humanities

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