could you describe Geneva as governed by Calvin
Check this site.
http://swiss-history.suite101.com/article.cfm/john_calvin_comes_to_geneva
THANX MS SUE I KNEW I COULD COUNT ON U
Sure! Geneva during the time when it was governed by John Calvin was a city-state in Switzerland. Calvin's influence in Geneva began in the mid-16th century and lasted for several decades. He played a significant role in shaping the city's religious, social, and political structure.
Under Calvin's leadership, Geneva became a theocratic society, where religious authority held great influence over the daily lives of its citizens. Calvin's teachings, which emphasized predestination and moral discipline, became the basis of the city's religious doctrine.
To understand the governance of Geneva under Calvin, it's important to note that the city was governed by a combination of civil and ecclesiastical authorities. The Consistory, a council established by Calvin, was responsible for enforcing moral discipline and maintaining the purity of faith. It consisted of both civil leaders and members of the clergy.
Calvin's religious teachings were tightly intertwined with the city's legal system. The Consistory had the authority to punish individuals for various offenses, including heresy, blasphemy, adultery, and disobedience. Punishments ranged from fines to banishment or even execution in extreme cases.
In terms of political structure, Geneva operated as a republic, with a system of representative government. Calvin himself did not hold any formal office, but his influence was exerted through his sermons, writings, and his role as a theological and moral adviser to the city's leaders.
The government of Geneva during Calvin's era can be described as a combination of religious enforcement, moral discipline, and republican governance. It was characterized by a strict adherence to Calvin's teachings, which permeated all aspects of life in the city.