Daily Life
Special guests // Stepchildren of the Reformation: Calvin's Family Drama
Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." Today, we're delighted to bring you an episode created by special guests Isabella and Jeffrey Watt, our friends who edited the "Registers of the Consistory of Geneva in the time of Calvin". They invite us to dive into the juicy family drama of 16th-century Geneva, where even the great reformer John Calvin couldn't escape domestic turmoil.
Picture this: Calvin, the stern moralist, suddenly finds himself playing stepdad to two rebellious teenagers. That's right, folks! When Calvin married Idelette de Bure in 1540, he inherited her children from a previous marriage: Jacob and Judith Tourneur. Talk about an instant family!
Cleanliness in Geneva: The Struggle for Urban Hygiene in the 16th Century
Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In today's episode, we delve into the fascinating history of Geneva in the 16th century, a time when the city was grappling with cleanliness and hygiene issues. This podcast explores the challenges faced by Genevan authorities during the Reformation, from 1536 to 1600, in maintaining the cleanliness of the streets.
Insanity in Calvin's Geneva
Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In today's episode, we delve into the complex world of mental illness in 16th-century Geneva under Calvin's leadership. The Council of Geneva's archives reveal a nuanced approach to managing madness, with authorities distinguishing between local residents and foreigners. The city's response varied depending on the individual's behavior, particularly whether they were calm or disruptive to public order.
Genevan Hygiene, 1536-1564
Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." Today, we're peering into the homes and families of 16th-century Geneva, uncovering a world both familiar and alien to our modern sensibilities. Between 1536 and 1564, Geneva's family structure was deeply patriarchal, with women generally occupying subordinate roles, though exceptions did exist. This wasn't just about social norms; it was a response to the harsh realities of the time.
The Misdeeds of François Bourdon
Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In today's episode, we delve into the scandalous life of François Bourdon, a wealthy bachelor in 16th-century Geneva. Consistory records paint a vivid picture of a man who repeatedly found himself on the wrong side of Calvin's moral courts. Bourdon faced multiple charges of debauchery, including several cases of illegitimate paternity, and even possession of a book of enchantments. Yet, despite his transgressions, Bourdon's punishments were surprisingly lenient.
