Franciscans in the Attic: The Strength of Material Ties Within Religious Dissident Networks

Abstract

This essay analyses the practice of material support among the actors of the dissident network known as the beguins of Languedoc, which was persecuted and nearly dismantled in the first half of the 14th century. The reasons why inquisitorial machinery focused on these instances, sometimes even to the detriment of more pressing doctrinal concerns will be discussed in the context of the social mapping and disruption that was central to inquisitorial efforts against heresy. The contribution of women will also be explored as a particular form of religious dissent, one that will be situated within the framework of religious experience, stressing the need to broaden our views on the nature of religious dissent itself.

Keywords

• beguins of languedoc
• networks
• women
• inquisitors
• heretical movements