The contributions collected by Irene Dingel and Herman Selderhuis in this volume concern the influence of the Swiss reformer Johannes Calvin in Europe and the later, far-reaching impact of Calvinism. Calvinism is primarily an internationally present confessional system whose representatives were active not only in the theological, but also in the social, political and cultural arenas; they interacted with existing systems and played a major role in the development of modern Europe. The book is divided into three thematic sections concerning Calvin himself and his influence in both Eastern and Western Europe; Calvin´s expulsion and exile and the resulting manifestations of early Calvinism; and finally the spiritual power of Calvinism found in a specific type of spirituality and emanation. This volume picks up on the various modern discussions, connects them with the potent influences of Calvinism in Europe through the ages, and introduces interdisciplinary and international themes to enlighten new research.
