Food, Religion and Communities in Early Modern Europe

Using a three-part structure focused on the major historical subjects of the Inquisition, the Reformation and witchcraft, Christopher Kissane examines the relationship between food and religion in early modern Europe.Food, Religion and Communities in Early Modern Europe employs three key case studies in Castile, Zurich and Shetland to explore what food can reveal about the wider social and cultural history of early modern communities undergoing religious upheaval. Issues of identity, gender, cultural symbolism and community relations are analysed in a number of different contexts. The book also surveys the place of food in history and argues the need for historians not only to think more about food, but also with food in order to gain novel insights into historical issues.This is an important study for food historians and anyone seeking to understand the significant issues and events in early modern Europe from a fresh perspective.

Reviews of Food, Religion and Communities in Early Modern Europe

A highly imaginative account of food, faith and society in early modern Europe. Kissane offers a refreshing comparative discussion which is never broad-brushed but richly contextualised. Students will enjoy a stimulating read which makes us think in new ways about religion and culture in the period. * Ulinka Rublack, Professor of Early Modern European History, University of Cambridge, UK * Here is some astounding storytelling: three separate episodes from Inquisition era Castile to Reformation Zurich to a witch hunt in Shetland, all three about food and women. This book fills so many gaps in the scholarship, is so beautifully written and thought provoking that I would recommend it for any early modern history class and anyone interested in the history of food and the history of women. * Ken Albala, Professor of History, University of the Pacific, USA *