School of History

Lucas Kriner

BA (Geneva College), MA (Catholic University), MLitt (St Andrews)

Thesis Title: The Activity of the Genevan Consistory, 1542-1552
Supervisor: Professor Andrew Pettegree

Abstract: My doctoral research focuses on the work of the consistory of Geneva between its inauguration in 1541 and the eve of Calvin’s so-called consolidation of 1555. The first decade of the consistory was formative and set a precedent for consistorial practice and its development in the Calvinist tradition. Using printed versions of manuscript material from the Archives d’Etat de Genève, the primary goal of my project will be to compile a full quantification of the consistory minutes between 1542 and 1552. This quantitative analysis will explore the early activity of the consistory in the light of the historical emphasis traditionally placed on it as an institution of discipline. In contrast, close examination provides a fresh perspective on lay participation, John Calvin’s involvement, and the legal and civil priorities of the court.
Was the consistory a source of widespread community aggravation? What authority did it have? By profiling consistory activity in Geneva, my thesis will attempt to demonstrate how the consistory became engaged in the exercise of law enforcement; a process that required cooperation between clergy, magistrates and people. This reading of the evidence will form the basis of a reassessment of consistorial activity stressing the importance of flexibility, negotiation and adaptation.

Memberships and Associations:
Calvin Studies Society
Renaissance Society of America
American Society of Church History
Quadrangle Historical Research Foundation