INFO - Inquisitions

Example of problems caused by familiars system?

(see above example about the influence of family feuds, PLUS) In Sicily, the Spanish Viceroy protested that there were so many familiars (24,000) that he could no longer enforce law. This dispute continued unchecked until he stormed tribunal in 1603. AND THEN IN 18TH CENTURY, it was interestingly the Viceroy again who lead the closure of the Sicilian tribunal.

Stats for torture in Maltese tribunal?

1650-84 = used 54 times. 1743-98 = 21 times. Ciappara argues that this shows softening of approach (could also show civilising thesis)... ...OR COULD SHOW A CHANGE IN SOCIAL ROLE?

Give an example which illustrates the declining influence of Inquisitions into the 18th century.

1715 case of one 'Augustina' - her supposed demonic possession was taken as true by her inquisitor, who did not attempt to take a rational, legal approach. THE INQUISITOR'S VERDICT WAS REJECTED BY THE STATE, THE INQUISITOR WAS CHASTISED, AND AUGUSTINA WAS SENTENCED TO CONFINEMENT TO A HOSPITAL.

What is important to remember about abjurations?

Abjurations did not always go as planned, and many either refused to recant, or used public demonstrations to in fact flip the message they were supposed to give.

How did the Inquisition in Brazil align with the interests of the colonial state?

Activity in Brazil gravitated towards regulating the most populous colonial centres (similar to Spanish inquisition which - at first - largely attempted to crack down on influential New Christian members of society)... ...however Sousa argues that it was primarily aimed at suppressing forms of religious syncretism; "heresies, spells, dissidence, adultery, incest, and bigamy, were a greater menace and therefore less tolerable at these nerve centres." The desire for Brazil to be kept under jurisdiction of Lisbon demonstrates an attempt to enforce uniformity and centralised power.

Give two main examples which illustrate similarities of aims of different Inquisition branches.

Advice Books used to direct inquisitorial trials. Similar importance of Consistories (interested in morality and social order) throughout inquisition branches. Also stats for executions.

What does Bethencourt argue surrounding importance of ritual in Rome, and how could one oppose him?

Argues that influence of Roman Inquisition in Italy depended far less on publicly visible ritual - operation was far more understated (and it had to be due to tensions politically with Italian states). HOWEVER, ritual was important in other ways cf. Confraternities and abjurations.

What does Davidson argue regarding seeing the inquisition less "passionately" (structure of Inquisitorial justice system).

Argues that more recent scholarship has sought to highlight the complexity of Inquisition as an institution - suppression was not arbitrary, but was grounded in process governed by canon law. Also stresses low execution figures for witchcraft especially.

What does Souza argue as the trend for Inquisitorial activity in Brazil over time?

Argues that there was no significant turning point at end of 17th century (activity increased rather than declined). HOWEVER, by 1760s, Inquisitorial approach had supposedly "softened" in Brazil, as Souza argues that the discourses governing perception of the world became increasing "rationalised."

How does the Maltese example show a more specific form of an Inquisitorial "system" for investigating religious crime?

Arrest only occurred after significant number of witnesses corroborated original accusation (potentially adds into inquisition as social ostracization - see below). Length of investigations and occasionally requesting foreign evidence suggests that there was a real desire to discover "truth" of claims. OCCASIONALLY INQUISITORS WOULD INVESTIGATE "SCENE OF THE CRIME" THEMSELVES.

What were the circumstances of the initial setting up of Roman Inquisition in 1542 (as Congregation of Holy Office)?

BELLER AND BLACK - Inquisition grew out of increasing sense of pressure on the Church from forces of external competition (e.g. Protestants in Northern Italy, influence of Juan Valdes and his followers in Naples). Also influence of Carafa. FIRPO (Spirituali and Intransigenti thesis) - Inquisition were created as part of a factionalisation of the Church which sought to remove evangelical influence. Firpo argues that Carafa and Inquisition came to control the Church (e.g. Sixtus V).

How to support BELLER AND BLACK and potentially oppose FIRPO?

Beller and Black's argument aligns with other developments going on at a similar time... ...namely the stuff with conversionary sermons and the redistribution of neophytes in Rome.

What is an important caveat highlighted by BLACK when considering the potential undermining of Inquisitorial authority regarding censorship?

Black notes that it was not unheard of for Inquisition to utilise external censoring bodies when dealing with cases, especially where "dubious literature" was concerned. But maybe the difference with Venice is that they actively attempt to move away from Inquisitorial influence.

Give an example which demonstrates a pre-18th century example of the difficulties in regulating general "deviances"?

Blasphemy - this is an example of a crime that had mixed jurisdiction which had traditionally been difficult to negotiate (though SHUGER'S study perhaps demonstrates that this became more difficult over time). If Blasphemy was caused by anger or "habitual behaviour", it was prosecuted by secular courts. If it was stated through heretical statements (e.g. challenging Mary's virginity) it was dealt with by Inquisition. THIS PRESUMABLY WOULD HAVE DEPENDED ON DENUNCIATIONS - WHICH SHOWS AGAIN HOW IMPORTANT THESE WERE.

SPANISH example of Inquisitors attempting to influence social control with their actions and rulings?

Case of Mateo Rodriguez - leader of Spanish mystic group in Madrid in 1630s.

How can one see the closeness of affiliation between Inquisitions in Spain and Portugal with the state?

Consultation in Spain was centred on the "Suprema" in Madrid, and for Portugal the Conselho Geral in Lisbon. The corresponding authority in Italy (Rome) was largely associated with the Congregations of the Papacy. THIS SHOWS HOW HIGH UP THE INQUISITORS WERE SUPPOSED TO DEFER AUTHORITY TO - AND IT SUGGESTS THAT SECULAR POWER WAS THE MAIN INQUISITORIAL AUTHORITY IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL. The Pope has no say in who is chosen as head of these Spanish and Portuguese divisions - they are named by the monarchs, only confirmed by the Pope.

Despite systems of investigation and regulation, what disadvantages could a defendant face before the Inquisition?

Defendants could often incriminate themselves (interrogations carried out under oath often went against Pope Innocent III's bull that no-one should be made to incriminate themselves). Defendants not provided with any description of who had denounced them.

What is an important caveat to note surrounding appointment of Dom Henrique as second Inquisitor General?

Despite his supposed status as a royal puppet, he still required authority conferred by a Papal bull, which was presented by his predecessor Monteiro - DE JURE RECOGNITION BY PAPACY IS STILL IMPORTANT. See below for caveat stating the conflict which could occur between crown and Inquisition.

Example besides 1715 with Augustina which shows further reaching disputes and difficulties between Inquisitorial tribunals and civil authority?

Disputes between Sicilian tribunal and the local Viceroy (see below) - Spanish e.g. Also in Italy, disputes with Venice, later echoed by Parma and other Italian states, often centred around how to correctly balance the influence of inquisition versus secular authority.

What is important to note regarding the character of denunciation in Malta, and what might this suggest about its status (which potentially criticises Ciappara's argument as to its closeness with Rome and its continual activity)?

Due to a lack of desire from individuals to inform on neighbours, many denunciations in Malta were SELF-DENUNCIATIONS. (between 1754-59, 68% of denunciations were self-denunciations). This was partly through questions of conscience but also through a hope for lenient treatment ESPECIALLY WHERE RUMOURS WERE STARTING TO EMERGE. SO THIS SEEMS TO PRESENT INQUISITION IN MALTA AS KIND OF SOCIAL REGULATORY MECHANISM (still had religious significance, but due to its nature it is closely tied into local context and concerns).

ITALIAN example demonstrating the importance of abjurations for the Inquisition?

Example of Fra Pietro da Borgo (this is the one given and analysed by D'allangelo). Abjured in 1596. Pietro da Borgo's abjuration at the hands of the inquisition fundamentally consisted of attempting to reverse / rewrite his previous messages (or "orality") that he had associated with. He was made to reject his original views, and then testify to the exact opposite.

How can one argue that the punishments given by the inquisitorial branches were largely all lenient, and broadly synchronised with the common desire to unify Catholic communities rather than primarily punish offenders?

Examples of Abjurations (getting heretical individual to recant their statements).

How did the Inquisition perhaps connect the lower echelons of society with political hierarchy above it?

For some, the Inquisition acted as an opportunity for career development - many Inquisitors later became bishops / archbishops and sometimes Cardinals. The Inquisitor for Malta, for example, also doubled up as diplomatic representative to the Papacy. The future Pope Sixtus V began his rise through the Church in the Venetian Inquisition (he was dismissed by the Tre Savi Sopra Eresia). THOUGH EVEN IF THIS IS THE CASE, THE POWER WHICH THE INQUISITION COULD WEILD, AND THE MEANINGFULNESS OF THE INQUISITION IN ENFORCING SOCIAL DISCIPLINING SEEMS TO PETER OUT BY 18TH CENTURY.

Give two examples of backfired abjurations (in Italy).

Fra Giovanni in 1553 lambasted Church and his Inquisitors from the pyre. Cobbler rejected the abjuration written for him in 1544 at Udine Cathedral and instead affirmed his heretical beliefs.

Give an example of a tribunal in Italy which was able to work relatively well with central Roman Inquisition?

Genoa - it demonstrated the importance of 'checks and balances' which seems to characterise all Papal reform that becomes successful. I.e. Genoese Inquisitor was nominally controller of affairs in Genoa from 1596 onwards, YET, local Genoese vicars were extremely important in the management of local affairs. E.g. close cooperation in cases of blasphemy and heresy.

Give two examples which Souza uses to illustrate her discourse analysis in practice?

Gives an example of the Northern Italian fertility cult of the Benandanti - this was transformed from an accepted cult into a diabolic one due to inquisitorial pressure. The process of confession strengthened inquisitorial discourses - the "raving" of accused when confessing reproduced common tropes inserted into popular imagination by inquisition and thus strengthened their efficacy.

Example of Seghizzi (Milan and Cremona)?

He apparently "bombarded" the Congregation with continual clarifications in line with the nominal requirements.

How were familiars appointed?

Iberia = appointed by local inquisitors as part of chain of command. Italy = appointment was far more centralised; generally Congregation of HO appointed familiars (inquisitors could suggest candidates, but it was not unheard of for suggested candidates to be entirely rejected outright).

Which form of inquisitorial operation in Brazil could be linked to the practice of abjuring (in terms of Dall'Aglio's argument surrounding replacing orality)?

Imposition of inquisitorial elite discourses as highlighted by Souza. Souza argues that trials and interrogations acted as a way for "elite" inquisitorial rhetoric and discourse to displace and warp popular discourses and understandings.

Give 3 examples of regional variations in Inquisitorial practice due to influence of tribunals.

In Iberia, Aragonian Inquisition was given jurisdiction to persecute sodomy. BUT in Castille, these crimes remained firmly under the jurisdiction of secular courts. The central Inquisitorial Handbook did not mention the practice of staging abjurations where the original heresy took place - shows Inquisition was perhaps primarily a case of regional interpretations of central 'ideology' of Inquisition. Example of Salazar Documents.

How was the recruitment of familiars guided by the character of the colonial system?

In Lima, the change from artisanal familiars to those of higher status was not seen as it was in Europe. Familiars in Lima had always been appointed from pool of crown officials - INQUISITION THERE (as in Brazil and Goa) IS CONNECTED FAR MORE WITH COLONIAL APPARATUS.

How can one see the development of 1542 sentiment from Rome developing in other areas of Italy?

In Maltese tribunal - from 1574 (after Gregory XIII appointed Duzina as chief inquisitor) the post of chief Inquisitor was continually held by Italians. Duzina was engaged in (eventually successful) disputes with local ordinaries, and managed to wrestle control of tribunal from influence of their authority.

How can one argue that abjurations illustrate the thrust of Inquisition's purpose?

In cases seen in both Italy and Spain, the Inquisition seems more concerned with correcting the 'ideas' of the individual who has erred - and thus remedying the effect their message has had upon the listening audience - rather than having a primary purpose as punishing the individual as heretic. Abjurations for FIRST OFFENCES were usually quite lenient punishments.

Caveat regarding anonymity?

In certain cases, this was suspended when accused was placed face-to-face with accuser (perhaps in cases of witchcraft or demonic possession where things such as 'scratching' were done).

How could one argue - regarding process of inquisition investigations - that closeness and affiliation of most powerful secular authority was important for Inquisition success?

In places where Inqusition were more closely affiliated with central authority (Rome / Spain e.g.), they were more directly involved in the process of judging the case at trial. In Spain, 2/3 inquisitors assisted a prosecutor at the tribunal. In Rome, and other Italian tribunals outside of Venice, Inquisitor often served as both accuser and judge. In Venice, however, where central papal jurisdiction was more hotly contested, the Inquisitor was involved in information gathering, but was excluded from the actual process of the trial.

How can circumstances of closure of Portuguese tribunal be compared to Spanish?

In some ways is related to overt political agenda - part of Pombal's (prime minister) supposedly liberal programme of 1774. However the immediate restoration of Goan tribunal following initial closure in 1774 (after death of king and sacking of Pombal in 1778) suggests that it may have been part of wider political struggle.

Example of Friuli (and why might this be the case)?

In the case of Scandella highlighted by Ginzburg, the Friulan tribunal did not consult the Papacy, and passed judgement independently. This can potentially be explained by geographical distance from Rome making communication difficult... ...and also because following 1470, Friuli was a territory of Venice (and so was basically under its sphere of influence).

What is however important to remember about qualifying the 'central' mission of the Inquisition?

Individual tribunals could pursue different tacts and give the Inquisition different rights according to secular law. THE INQUISITION WERE NOT ABOVE THE SECULAR LAW, AND DEPENDED LARGELY UPON IT. THIS IS A SIMILARITY BETWEEN THEM, BUT IS ALSO FUNDAMENTALLY WHAT MADE THEM VERY DIFFERENT (AS THEY WERE MOULDED BY THE AIMS OF THEIR VARIOUS SECULAR REGIMES).

How does Davidson argue that the Inquisition should be seen as an institution which was constructed in an "orderly" manner - i.e. not just sadistic / arbitrary?

Information against suspects had to be corroborated by two independent witnesses. False testimony was punished. Torture was regulated; theological and legal advice was required for torture to be justified. And usage of inquisitorial handbooks shows that the inquisition did possess a defined "method" of operation (see below for caveat).

Besides Portugal, give two more examples of the reciprocal relationship the Inquisitions had to foster with communities?

Inquisition in Malta - communal dynamic is revealed through trials, and co-operation is crucial - as DENUNCIATIONS ARE REQUIRED for the process to work in the first place. Salazar documents - the hold Inquisition have over the local community is clearly evident in the eagerness with which families testify against each other. ILLUSTRATES THAT THERE DOES SEEM TO BE SIMILARITIES IN THE IDEOLOGICAL SCOPE / APPROACHES OF THE INQUISITIONS.

How did the institutional construction of Roman Inquisition lead to further problems in "periphery" regions (in addition to problems with competing authority e.g. Venice)?

Inquisition was made up of three main bodies (Congregation of the Index, Congregation of the Holy Office, Master of the Palace). These bodies often conflicted with one another; the jurisdiction of Holy Office on "heresy" often led to their members influencing other Congregations and undermining their authority. Periphery tribunals often did not know which Congregation to address with concerns.

How do circumstances of Spanish tribunal closure demonstrate its changing significance over time?

Inquisition's significance becomes tied into questions of future POLITICAL IDENTITY rather than religious questions. Liberalists close inquisition in 1813 and in 1820, and the reimposition of tribunal by Ferdinand VII in 1814 was a sign of his conservative / "royalist" agenda.

What is the danger in considering characteristic of closure of inquisitorial tribunals?

It is easy to assume that closure of inquisitions arises from situation of "impotence" or "unimportance." This might be convincing in some ways, but BETHENCOURT argues that one should not underestimate the notion that inquisitions were often actively persecuting heresy closely up until the closure of tribunals (and release of prisoners in Sicilian case suggests that denunciations were still occurring). Also important to note that Llorente (wrote first significant survey of Inquisitions) was himself an active part of an attempted reform movement within Spanish tribunals in late 18th century, which doesn't suggest that Inquisitions were totally unimportant by that stage. BETHENCOURT argues that the Inquisition had become aligned with the state, but had increasingly been seen as incompatible with new political cultures of liberalism (visible forms of inquisition were frequently removed long before tribunals were formally closed).

When did the Inquisitorial tribunals in Italy, Spain and Portugal shut down?

Italian tribunals had all basically gone by the 1790s (except the Congregations in Rome). Spanish tribunals closed in 1813, then reinstated briefly, closed again in 1820, fully ratified by 1836. Portuguese trials closed by 1821.

What might be described as one of the main reasons why Inquisition authority began to decline in Spain in 17th and 18th centuries?

Legal and theological notions and principles became increasingly divorced, and so the Inquisitorial tribunals could no longer police social sphere in the same way as they had previously.

Give two examples which demonstrate the contrasting relationship of the peripheries with the centre in the case of the Italian inquisition.

Nominally, the central Congregation in Italy was supposed to be consulted on more serious cases or those cases in which torture was considered / advocated. Two examples of this in practice = Seghizzi (MILAN AND CREMONA) and FRUILI.

What does Souza argue regarding the operation of denunciation in Brazil?

Notes that they were similarly important as they were in Malta in providing the Inquisition with "ammunition" - and also that denunciations largely came from associates (friends, neighbours). Souza associates denunciations with an act of betrayal, and argues that this could only be carried through if the inquisition were able to exercise a sufficient amount of "moral authority" over communities (and this came through psychological control).

How did "informal violence" operate in Brazil (according to Souza)?

Notes the practice of placing edicts of anathema on the doors of Churches and Inquisitional tribunals - THIS GAVE INQUISITORIAL PRACTICES AND SUPPRESSION MASS EXPOSURE, AND CREATED A CLIMATE OF FEAR WHICH LED TO CONTINUED DENUNCIATION. The sense of fear is directly attested to in Salazar documents.

Career advancement within Maltese tribunal?

Of former notaries of Maltese tribunal... ...two became Popes. 25 became cardinals. 18 became bishops.

How could one link the operation of Inquisitorial "fisc" with the work of De Souza?

One can infer from Souza's work about the importance of psychology in maintaining Inquisitorial power (e.g. mystique). The selling of offices in Granada involved public advertisement as to their sale - this broke down seclusion, secrecy and served to remove from the Inquisition its psychological fear factor somewhat.

Give two examples which illustrate the Roman inqusition's power as heavily mediated by external political relationships rather than internal status of the Papacy.

Period of increasing effectiveness of Inquisitorial application of censorship in Venice in 1560s was characterised by growing political alliance between Venice and the Papacy (GRENDLER). THE KIND OF RELIGIOUS LITERATURE WHICH WAS PUBLISHED WAS ALSO DIRECTED INCREASINGLY TOWARDS MORAL VALUES, REFLECTING A GREATER DESIRE FROM THE VENETIANS TO REGULATE THE MORAL COMPASSES OF THEIR NOBILITY. c.1575 - 1590s, by contrast, were characterised by growing separation from Venice to the Papacy - e.g. Venetian opposition of 1596 papal index, as Venetians sought to 'increase control over the lives of their citizens.' AND AGAIN THE NOTION THAT PAPACY STILL WANTED TO TRY AND USE INQUISITION TO ENFORCE INDEXES IN 1596 SUGGESTS THAT IT WAS EXTERNAL RATHER THAN INTERNAL POLITICS WHICH MATTERED MORE FOR ITALIAN INQUISITION.

Outside of Venice, give two other Italian examples of states which the inquisition struggled to work with (or at least faced competition in trying to exercise authority there).

Piedmont - the Inquisitor in Piedmont had to contend with the rival authority of the nuncio in attempting to gain direct involvement in cases. Lombardy - Authority in Lombardy was split between the Spanish authorities (presumably a case similar to Naples) and the influence of Cardinals - who themselves could have authority in maintaining social discipline (e.g. Borromeo).

How might one explain the presence of tribunal in Goa versus the lack of one in Lisbon?

Potentially through referring to the principle of accommodation as analysed by Rubies - i.e. what fundamentally guided decisions on interacting with colonial peoples was perceptions of "civilisation." India was considered in the same camp as China and Japan, but also came within Portuguese Empire. So Tribunal is a reflection of Empire within a "civilised" society.

What was the basic structure of Inquisitorial organisation in Portugal?

Primary rank was the General Inquisitors who had DIRECT ACCESS TO THE CROWN. Next on ladder were deputies of General Council of Holy Office. Then inquisitors of district courts. Then commissarios (clerics who carried out tasks in localities). Then Familiares (lay assistants). ONE CAN THEREFORE SEE THE CLEAR CHAIN OF COMMAND WHICH HEADS RIGHT FROM THE CROWN AND INTERESTINGLY EXTENDS DEEP INTO THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES.

How might Rodriguez's case be linked to a notion of Inquisition protecting the religious unity of the 'group' rather than going specifically for punishing the individual?

Rodriguez was externally considered as a model Catholic, and was only investigated by the Inquisition when his private practices of "mental prayer" began to be expressed PUBLICLY through his role as a teacher, threatening the authority of priests. Again, the inquisition seem to be committed to protecting the public religious status quo and unity of the community. They seem to be punishing Rodriguez the leader, not necessarily Rodriguez the mystic.

Why might the case of Rodriguez foreshadow the problems that were beginning to develop at the heart of Inquisition identity?

Rodriguez's profession of "mental prayer" exemplifies the emerging mystic culture which pervaded some aspects of Catholicism following reformation. Mystics operated in things which could not be identified in traditional, objective legal terms.

Differing circumstances of Inquisitorial closure in Italian Peninsula?

Sardinia (1720) = change of government from Spanish to House of Savoy. Naples (1746), Parma (1768), Milan (1775) = Part of "enlightened agenda." Venice, Turin, Genoa (during French invasions 1796-1800) / Joseph Napoleon initially closing Inquisitions in 1808 after invasion.

Circumstances of foundation of Portuguese Inquisition?

Set up by Papal Bull in 1536 at request of John III, 4 Inquisitors chosen (see below). Following election of second Inquisitor General (Dom Henrique) in 1539, the King controlled the distribution of the tribunals and their jurisdiction directly. Conselho Geral begins to sit continually in session from 1560s onwards.

Key dates for the Maltese tribunal?

Set up in 1530. Ruled by Knights Hospitallers until 1561 - THEN UNDER CONTROL OF THE PAPACY.

How did the reforms of Sixtus V complicate matters r.e. Roman Inquisition relating to peripheries?

Sixtus V oversaw creation of several new congregations: Bishops (1573) Good Government (1592) Regulars (1586) Rites (1588)

Sousa v Ciappara on anonymity?

Sousa = Shows Inquisitorial tactics of psychological warfare / assuming guilt of the accused. Ciappara = Due to the close-knit nature of communities, many of the accused would have known the rumours against them even with anonymity as a factor (maybe self-denunciations supports this? Though Sousa argues that self-denunciations were a product of Inquisitorial manipulation).

How did the activity of Brazilian inquisition reflect thrusts of Council of Trent?

Sousa argues that the desire to eliminate "folkloric" practices from religion derived from the stipulations set out at Trent. Souza argues that American popular religion was "demonised" and placed into categories of sorcery defined by European demonologists (WHICH THUS ALIGNED WITCHCRAFT BELIEFS WITH POPULAR CULTURE).

What are the three main areas of Inquisition in European Catholic Church?

Spain Portugal Rome. ALSO NOTE THAT THERE WERE INQUSITIONS FOR OTHER GLOBAL PARISHES AND JURISDICTIONS (E.G. MEXICO AND GOA).

When were the different Inquisitions created?

Spain 1478 Portugal 1536 Roman inquisition was initially set up in 1231 by Gregory XI as a temporary body... ...but Paul III created Congregation of the Holy Office in 1542 which represented the de facto setting up of Roman Inquisition as it appeared over next few centuries.

What were the three main institutional characteristics of the different inquisitions?

Spain and Portugal (and their associated territories) were nominally under royal jurisdiction. The Roman inquisition acted under the influence of the Papal monarchy - though often competed for influence in different Italian states (e.g. Venice).

How could one argue that the relationship of Venetian state to the Papacy over matters of censorship illustrate the role and position which the Inquisition inhabited within society?

Success of the Inquisition was dependant upon good political relations between the Pope and other Italian states - unlike in Spain and Portugal, external relations seem to matter more than internal. Creation of the "Tre Savi Sopra Eresia" and its operation. The authority of Esecutori contro la bestemmia and other Venetian sensoring authorities.

What is an important qualification to make when considering the Inquisitions?

THEIR CHARACTERS CANNOT BE ONLY DEFINED THROUGH THEIR HIERARCHIES AND POWER STRUCTURES. Often local tribunals meant that at local level, the aims and methods of the inquisition were sometimes altered, and their focuses different. This means that the characters of single inquisitions - as well as when comparing different inquisitions - cannot be presupposed over time.

How did the Teresian lexicon in Spain complicate legal matters?

Teresian lexicon began to attempt to codify and explain the meaning of different parts of mystical language. As the lexicon was officially adopted as orthodox by the Church in 17th Century, it meant that inquisitors now had a way of conceptualising mysticism legally, BUT THEY COULD NOT USE IT TO CONVICT DEFENDANTS, DUE TO ITS OFFICIAL RECOGNITION BY THE CHURCH.

How could one argue that failed abjurations can actually support my theory about the Inquisition's main goal?

That abjurations were still sought, and Inquisitions ran the risk of abjurations going wrong, suggests that they were obviously viewed as important by branches of Inquisition.

Give a 15th century example of the interaction between the Inquisition and "popular culture"?

The 1485 conspiracy which led to the "martyrdom" of Pedro de Arbues. Following failed appeals to Papacy to rescind establishment of Spanish Inquisition, conspirators attacked Arbues (local inquisitor in Zaragoza) while he was at prayer. The Inquisition publicised this event as an act of martyrdom to increase their own legitimacy - miracle occurred in which Arbues' dried blood was liquified and healing was seen at his coffin. This is followed up by Inquisition moving into Royal Palace of Aljaferia.

How does the Esecutori contro la bestemmia undermine the Inquisition's position in Venice?

The Esecutori fulfils many of the roles which the Inquisition fulfilled - it placed bookmen under surveillance and confiscated volumes in similar way. Their scope was also against religious literature, targeting Jewish books. The Esecutori were among other organisations in Venice (as was the case in other states with the Riformatori at Padua) such as the Council of Ten, which had similar powers of censorship and which answered to the State rather than the Pope. THE INQUISITION'S POWERS IN ITALY SEEM LESS DEFINED THAN IN OTHER - MAINLAND - EUROPEAN STATES, WHERE POWER WAS DERIVED AND DEFINED DIRECTLY BY SECULAR AUTHORITY.

What was crucial in the process of Inquisitorial proceedure?

The Inquisition operated on a general procedure for investigating religious crime different to medieval "rimedium ordinarium" method (accusation system which centred on local judiciary). INQUISITION NOMINALLY SOUGHT OUT CRIMES ITSELF PROACTIVELY. However, in tribunals where there was insufficient infrastructure locally to discover all crimes (e.g. Brazil, Malta), DENUNCIATIONS were important.

Why is the 1485 conspiracy and the Inquisition's reaction significant?

The Inquisition taps into two different kinds of popular "understandings" of power and ritual significance to enforce their social standing - firstly the saint cults and secondly the castle (two different kinds of authority). This links into de Souza's argument regarding the derivation of their power in Brazil.

Why was the Inquisition (especially in Spain) so attached to gaining physical evidence to present in trials?

The Inquisition was initially set up as an institution which was to regulate religious "faith." (SHUGER). Though "faith" at the time of the Inquisition's founding was basically interpreted as a synonym for PRACTICE - though with the religious character changes post-Reformation, faith and practice began to be separated. ALSO, the Inquisition in Iberia had basically cut its teeth on hunting Jews and Muslims, who were easily observable by their adherence to a set of externalised rituals and practices.

Give an example of a point of departure / variation within a single Inquisitorial tribunal?

The Lisbon tribunal is an interesting one - it has jurisdiction in Portugal but also over colonial domains in Brazil. Though suspects are sent to Lisbon for trial etc, the operation of inquisition in Brazil is guided by locally-specific concerns - THE MOST OBVIOUS ONE BEING RACE - which are of less importance in mainland Portugal. Cf. Purity of Blood rule below.

How was ritual important in the operation of the Portuguese Inquisition?

The Portuguese King personally attended the first auto-da-fe held at Lisbon in 1540, and frequently attended auto-da-fes following this date - THE CONNECTION TO ROYAL AUTHORITY WAS DELIBERATELY VISIBLE (as in Spanish example with royal palace). The monarch was not required to swear oath to Auto-da-fe as he was in Spain - Portuguese control seems more total (but not completely).

What is interesting about the jurisdiction of the Papal Inquisition (pretension vs reality)?

The Roman Inquisition was set up by Paul III as an institution with supposed influence throughout the world, and over other inquisitorial tribunals. Yet, DAVIDSON notes that whatever its pretensions, the Inquisition based in Rome still largely had its influence confined to the Italian peninsula.

What key symbolic device developed during the Inquisition's operation in Brazil which demonstrates how they maintained control over population?

The Ships on which the Lisboan contingent arrive often are cited in sources as causing mass fear and panic (e.g. one woman begged her friend not to reveal her secrets to Inquisition once the boats docked in the harbour) - she was eventually denounced. The Ships represent Inquisition as "otherworldly" and it demonstrates the mystique which was essential to the operation of their power.

How might the circumstances for creation of the 'Tre Savi Sopra Erasia' illustrate the kind of role the Inquisition were viewed to fulfil?

The Tre Savi Sopra Ereisa (The Three Wise Men Over Heresy) was created in 1547 by Venetian state as a show of "goodwill" to Rome (GRENDLER). Also was apparently created in reaction to MORAL THREAT posed by Protestantism and the Schmalkalden league elsewhere in Europe. THUS IT WAS OBVIOUSLY AN INSTITUTION SET UP IN GOOD FAITH WITH ROME (NOT OTHER WAY AROUND) AND WAS INTENDED TO REGULATE MORAL STANCE OF POPULATION.

How might the operation of the "Tre Savi Sopra Eresia" (1547) reflect the limitations of the Inquisition in Italy, and show how it received its power there?

The Tre Savi Sopra Eresia included nominally a split between Church and State (3 secular and 3 clerical members). Despite this nominal equality, there was a CLEAR HIERARCHY, WHICH SAW THE SECULAR MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL TAKE PRECEDENT IN ITS OPERATION. The Council was able to remove Inquisitors from office who did not align with the views of lay deputies (e.g. Fra Felice Peretti - future Sixtus V - in 1560).

Which area of inquisition could one argue showed the greatest degree of similarity?

The aims of the inquisition and what it sought to achieve was largely the same - in relation to the different national communities and context in which it operated.

How can one characterise the broad moral goal of the inquisition, the enforcement of which they were given the most freedom to pursue?

The desire to maintain the unity and integrity of the Christian COMMUNITY.

What is important to remember about the temporal scope of censorship?

The final Papal index was issued in 1948 - SO ONE CAN PERHAPS SEE THAT PAPAL DESIRE FOR SOCIAL REGULATION WAS IN EVIDENCE MORE GENERALLY AND CONTINUED PAST EM PERIOD PERHAPS INQUISITION ARE SHAPED BY THE SOCIOPOLITICAL CONVENTIONS OF THEIR TIME?

How did interactions with civil authority affect the appointment of familiars?

The fisc of the Inquisition was increasingly occupied by crown officials. This meant that the Inquisitorial fisc was frequently placed under financial difficulties which the crown might encounter (especially in Spain), which led to widespread selling of offices in 17th century. THIS GRADUALLY INCREASED THE SOCIAL STANDING OF THOSE WHO COULD AFFORD TO BUY OFFICES.

How can one argue that Fra Pietro Borgo's abjuration illustrates the motives of the Inquisition?

The important thing about Borgo's abjuration (and others) was that it (they) was (were) THEATRIC - abjurations were often presented as sermons, and spoken on days guaranteed to attract a large audience (Sundays or Feast Days). THE INQUISITION ARE USING THE ABJURATION TO RESTORE SOCIAL ORDER AND ALIGNMENT OF THE PARISHIONERS, RATHER THAN FUNDAMENTALLY TO PUNISH THE INDIVIDUALS.

What about the advice books suggest that there was some evidence of similarity in the aims of the Inquisition?

The main standard used was "Directorum Inquisitorium" which was written in 1376 by Nicholas Eymeric and first printed in 1520. Francisco Pena updated the text in 1578. This was printed centrally in Rome and widely circulated across Inquisition branches - THIS WAS A BOOK WHICH GAVE ADVICE ON HOW THE INQUISITION SHOULD CONDUCT ITS BUSINESS.

What additional distinctions were implemented in the appointment of familiars?

The notion of the "purity of blood" rule became increasingly important for the appointment of familiars - AND THIS TOOK ON ADDITIONAL IMPORTANCE IN COLONIAL SETTINGS, AND IN RELATION TO NEW CHRISTIANS. 1604 = those of "base condition" (social condition - "mechanical" trades) were prevented from becoming officials by Suprema.

How can one analyse the founding rituals in evidence in Seville in 1480?

The ritual seems to illustrate the Inquisition presenting itself as an organisation which represents each level of society - the rites affect all members of the civic community... ...and each in their own symbolic language (i.e. mass and procession as general show of power to lower orders / bull and edicts to council to illustrate legitimacy).

Why did the Reformation begin to trigger more instances of 'internalised spirituality?'

The spirit of 'renewal' and 'reform' that abounded within the Catholic Church created a new kind of religious character within Catholicism (SHUGER). Authorities (especially in Spain) became more concerned about policing these new developments.

How might the Salazar documents show regional variation within the tribunals at play?

The testimony of Father Solarte (Jesuit Priest investigating demonic possessions on the behest of his superior Gaspar de Vargas) argues against the approach of the Inquisitor Beccera in the Inquisitions dealings with local cases of spirit possession (argues that local families are testifying against one another in order to gain lenient sentences). Salazar's report to the Inquisitor general in 1612 also suggests a remarkable willingness for people to denounce others when invited to, coupled with extremely co-operative authorities - suggests the ideological hold Inquisition attempts to cultivate.

What were the problems associated with the Inquisition's policy of utilising familiars (Familiares in Portugal)?

They were often given tax breaks or immunity for prosecution for serious crimes which undermined local authority. By 17th century, there was an attempt to move away from artisanal familiars to those who were associated with locally influential families, but this meant that inquisitorial tribunals often had to deal with local people who refused to co-operate with certain familiars because of historic family feuds.

How might low figures on executions be qualified / opposed?

Think about the "informal" forms of Inquisitorial violence - intimidation and psychological dominance - which are not included in execution statistics.

How did the jurisdiction of Brazilian Inquisition (under the Lisbon tribunal) affect the way that the inquisition operated?

Those cases requiring further investigation had to be transported by sea to Lisbon. Logistically, this meant that trials often took years to happen (e.g. Isabel Maria was accused on witchcraft in 1756, yet her trial occurred in 1758 in Lisbon - gap of two years). Some suspects died on the journey from Brazil to Lisbon. Sea travel also had the affect of removing suspects from the community - provided incentive for denouncing enemies, as well as having profound psychological effect (see below).

How might stats for executions of the Inquisitions suggest a similarity of approach across the branches?

Though BLACK argues that where executions were used by the authorities it was usually a show of Inquisition power (and I would argue by Proxy power of the state - as executions were largely centred in Iberian context)... ...the largest number of executions was still only 6% of all cases (in Portugal) between 1536-1767 This suggests that despite some evidence of Iberian inquisitions showing influences of monarchy, the broad agreed approach and aims was/were the same - as Nicholas Davidson argues (referenced in Black), the Inqusition generally sought to 'save souls'

What is important to remember about the initial focus of the Spanish tribunals?

Though Shuger argues that the Spanish Inquisition was largely focused on the suppression and persecution of Jews and Moriscos (New Christians) it is important to remember that it ALSO had a very general remit in other areas. E.g. "infidelity, heresy, and apostasy" - the founding documents of the inquisition were deliberately vague in definition of roles to ensure that it had could have informal influence over a large variety of communities.

How could one perhaps lessen the uniqueness of the Conselho Geral and Suprema compared to Papal Inquisition?

Though these bodies were subject to the crown, DAVIDSON argues that Cardinal Inquisitors in Rome often sought the similar kind of goals for their tribunals as the royal bodies did in Spain and Portugal. i.e. sought to standardise practice across local tribunal networks (e.g. all three issued decrees on jurisdiction and procedure which applied to all tribunals. All three expected to be consulted by local tribunals).

How could the Papal Inquisition in some ways still exert authority over the Spanish and Portuguese Tribunals?

Through the Papal index and the Congregation of the Index. THE LIST OF FORBIDDEN BOOKS APPLIED UNIVERSALLY, and led to tensions in Spain for example (Philip II). Though the Suprema and Conselho Geral had their own separate lists, they included books listed on Italian list. De jure, the Spanish and Portuguese tribunals were still required to show some degree of deference to Papal tribunal - cf. Seville 1480 and Dom Henrique and Monteiro.

How was torture regulated in Maltese Tribunal?

Torture could only be used after the accused had been given the right to defend themselves (though the rights of defence were limited - could not cross-examine witnesses, appear before court, or maintain client's innocence against court ruling - the defence could be important and effective). 17th century saw safeguards put in place for torture only to be used against those for whom there was "already cogent incriminating evidence."

What ritual rites were involved in the setting up of the Spanish Inquisition?

Upon its establishment in Seville (1480): Inquisition was received outside city by nobility. The founding edicts were ritually presented to the municipal council and nobility (Papal Bull and Royal charter). The founding rites ended with a procession of the Inquisition through the town, followed by a sermon and a performance of the mass.

Statistics for variation in Inquisitorial focuses over time in Italy?

Venice = between 1547-85, 68% of trials were concerned with Protestantism (compared with 5% based on suppression of magic and witchcraft). Between 1586-1630 this shifted - 19% for Protestantism now vs. 39% for magic.