What is the Counter Reformation?

The Counter Reformation is the Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation. It is also known as the Catholic Reformation and was the Church's attempt to expel the heresy begun by Martin Luther and others.

The Council of Trent, 1545- 1563, emphasized the Church's most important doctrines, those being challenged by the Protestant Reformation.

Affirmations from the Council of Trent:

1547-1548

1. Acceptance of the Nicene Creed as the basis of the Catholic faith.
2. Fixed the Canon of the Old and New Testament
3. Set the number of Sacraments at seven. The sacraments include Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.
4. Defined the nature, as well as consequences, of original sin.
5. Officially condemned Luther's justification by faith.

1551-1552

1. Confirmed transubstantiation
2. Issued degrees on:
A. Episcopal jurisdiction
B. Clerical discipline

1562-1563

1. Defined mass as true sacrifice
2. Issued decrees on the reform and structural centralization of religious orders.
3. Forbade the sale of indulgences
4. Created provisions for training parish clergy

How did the Council Affect Art and Architecture?

1. The Virgin Mary became increasingly associated with the Church and its struggles against the enemy, the Protestant movement. Therefore, Mary is found more prevalently in art and architecture.

A. Marian Column in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore
B. Chiesa Nuova

2. The Council reasserted the role of saints as examples of excellent Christian life. It also affirmed saints as intercessors to God. This was done as a response to Protestant criticisms. Therefore, art and architecture during this time period saw a dramatic increase in the number of pieces being dedicated to and focused on saints. Many of the saints came from different orders. The Council also reasserted the role of orders, such as the Jesuits, in the Church.

A. Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini
B. The Ecstasy of St. Theresa, 1645

3. The Council also began a strict interpretation of Biblical and certain theological doctrines, such as the glorification of Mary. This strict interpretation was carried through into the art and architecture.

A. Nudity and the Sistine Chapel
B. Altarpiece in Il Gesu'