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Religion was central to the political identities of politicians in the 1690s and early 1700s. In part this was because of the Church of England’s difficulties with the Revolution of 1688-9. Having developed firm views on the unlawfulness of resistance to kings, some of its clergy found it...
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The Interregnum of 1649-60 had seen the dismantling of the authority of the Church in England. The attempt to recreate it after the Restoration, and what was seen as the infiltration of Roman Catholics into the highest levels of government, were among the most divisive issues in English politics.
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Fast sermons were preached to Parliament by prominent clergymen on pre-arranged occasions. They provided opportunities to promote unity, galvanise Members into action and steer them towards particular policies. Usually published by request and with official authority, they also reflected...
