Welcome to “Really, Calvin – is this an ideal life? A historical podcast.” Today, we’re delighted to share a special episode by our friend Isabella Watt, co-editor of the Registers of the Genevan Consistory in the Time of Calvin. She brings us a surprising and colorful story at the crossroads of medicine, faith, and the human body: the moving case of Estienna Costel and Jean Cugnard—a 16th‑century Genevan couple whose story exposes the often pitiless way Calvinist society viewed sexuality and the female body. Before diving into their intimate drama, let’s step back for some context. Since antiquity, medical and surgical treatises have shaped how people understood the body and its functions. Galen and Hippocrates still reigned supreme, their theories inspiring a humoral medicine in which health depended on the balance of bodily fluids. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, writings on female anatomy became more numerous—steeped in taboos, censorship, and the persistent idea that the female body was merely an inverted version of the male. But in Calvin’s 16th‑century Geneva, these theories took on flesh in the person of Estienna Costel. Her husband, Jean Cugnard, sought a divorce: she suffered from a condition called arctitudo, a narrowing of the vaginal passage that made intercourse impossible and unbearably painful. The case shook Genevan institutions—the Consistory and the Lesser Council clashed over how to handle it, armed with reports from barber‑surgeons and midwives. Calvin, ever the logician, ruled the marriage invalid since it had never been consummated. But the Lesser Council took a different stance—one that was, shall we say, surgical. A solution so bold, even dangerous, that it leaves today’s listeners speechless. In this episode, we delve into one of the most perplexing trials of Reformation‑era Geneva: where theology, anatomy, and conjugal violence intersect. How did the civil and ecclesiastical courts of Calvin’s time attempt to “repair” an impossible marriage? ******* This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Bienvenue dans « Vraiment Calvin, est-ce là une vie idéale ? Un podcast historique ». Aujourd’hui, nous sommes ravis d'accueillir un nouvel épisode proposé par notre amie Isabella Watt, co-éditrice des "Registres du Consistoire de Genève au temps de Calvin". Elle nous propose un surprenant et truculent épisode à la croisée de la médecine, de la croyance et du corps : le cas bouleversant d’Estienna Costel et de Jean Cugnard, un couple genevois du XVIe siècle dont l’histoire révèle le regard, souvent impitoyable, que la société calvinienne portait sur la sexualité et le corps féminin. Avant d’en venir à leur drame intime, replongeons dans le contexte : depuis l’Antiquité, les traités de médecine et de chirurgie façonnent la compréhension du corps et de ses fonctions. Gallien et Hippocrate dominent encore les esprits, leurs théories inspirant une médecine humorale où l’équilibre des fluides gouverne la santé. Au Moyen Âge et à la Renaissance, les textes sur l’anatomie féminine se multiplient, empreints de tabous, de censures et d’une idée tenace : celle que le corps des femmes n’est qu’une version inversée de celui des hommes. Mais dans cette Genève du XVIe siècle, ces savoirs s’incarnent dans la chair d’Estienna Costel. Son mari, Jean Cugnard, veut divorcer : elle souffre d’une affection appelée arctitudo, un rétrécissement du passage vaginal rendant tout rapport impossible et douloureux. L’affaire secoue les institutions : Consistoire et Petit Conseil s’affrontent sur la marche à suivre, à coup de rapports de barbiers-chirurgiens et de sages-femmes. Calvin, fidèle à la rigueur de sa logique, déclare le mariage invalide puisqu’il n’a jamais été consommé. Mais le Petit Conseil, lui, propose une issue… disons, chirurgicale. Une solution audacieuse, voire terrifiante, qui laisse sans voix quiconque entend aujourd’hui ce verdict. Dans cet épisode, suivez-nous au cœur de l’un des procès les plus déroutants de la Genève réformée : entre théologie, anatomie et violence conjugale, comment les justices civile et consistoriale à l'époque de Calvin ont-elle tenté de « réparer » un mariage impossible ? ******* This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Bienvenue sur « Vraiment Calvin, est-ce là une vie idéale ? Un podcast historique ». Aujourd’hui, cap sur Genève au XVIe siècle, où l’on découvre que même les familles les plus distinguées n’étaient pas forcément des modèles de vertu — en témoigne François Bourdon, notable bien en vue… mais catalogué client régulier du Consistoire. Sous le regard scrutateur de Calvin et de ses alliés, la Réforme œuvre à bâtir une société pieuse, réglée comme du papier à musique. Pourtant, François Bourdon, héritier d’une famille influente et citoyens au bénéfice de riches connexions, accumule les démêlés pour… disons, des aventures sentimentales un peu turbulentes et immorales. Fornications à répétition, adultère, soupçons de sorcellerie, et même accusations de viol, ses frasques auraient pu lui valoir la disgrâce… mais la réalité se montre plus nuancée. Entre repentances publiques, amendes plutôt clémentes et tolérance intrigante liée à son statut social (sans oublier le fameux la surprenant mention du « célibataire indulgent » des registres), Bourdon illustre la difficile conciliation entre idéaux moraux sévères et poids des privilèges. Aussi, plongeons ensemble dans les horloges bien réglées du Consistoire, où la justice divine se frotte parfois à la politique, où la rigueur rencontre les failles humaines, et où la sainteté n’exclut pas quelques zones d’ombre. Une leçon d’histoire qui montre que, même dans la Genève la plus puritaine, l’humain reste… humain. ******* Ce podcast de vulgarisation historique est développé dans le cadre du projet interdisciplinaire intitulé “Une édition sémantique et multilingue en ligne des Registres du Conseil de Genève / 1545-1550” (RCnum) et réalisé par l’Université de Genève (UNIGE), avec le soutien du Fonds national suisse de la recherche scientifique (FNS). Pour plus d’informations : https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast. In today’s episode, we dive into some fascinating excerpts from a French academic study that takes a deep dive into the history of Geneva’s "hospitals" during the Reformation—a time when things were changing faster than you can say “John Calvin.” Using a treasure trove of Geneva’s archives—think dusty Council records, financial ledgers, and notarial documents—the author pieces together the puzzle of how many hospices there were, where they were located, and how they actually worked before and during this whirlwind of religious and political upheaval. Along the way, the study clears up a few historical mix-ups (because even historians need to fact-check), and gives us a clear picture of how Geneva’s social care system was reshaped to deal with the new Protestant reality. So, buckle up as we explore how caring for the poor, the local bourgeois, and weary travelers got a serious makeover in 16th-century Geneva—no miracle potions required! *********** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast. In today's episode, 'Meat, Power, and Rebellion: Geneva's Butchers vs. Authority (1536-1550),' we dive into the simmering tensions of Reformation-era Geneva. Picture this: a city caught between Calvin's strict moral order and a defiant butchers' guild determined to carve out their own rules. From price disputes to tax rebellions and even fights over prime real estate for their shops, the butchers weren’t afraid to challenge the city’s rulers. Add in some drama with roast houses and a few creative punishments, and you’ve got a recipe for a meaty historical showdown. Let’s explore how this battle over beef shaped Geneva’s political landscape. ********** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." Today, we're exploring the administrative transformation of Geneva during the Reformation era. In the 16th century, Geneva wasn't just experiencing religious upheaval; it was also undergoing a significant organizational revolution. The city's administrative documents, once in disarray, became the focus of a concerted effort to establish order and efficiency. This period saw the creation of a dedicated archivist position, highlighting the growing importance of proper document management. Concurrently, we observe a fascinating linguistic shift: French, the vernacular, gradually replaced Latin in official documents, making administration more accessible to the general populace. The city authorities also implemented new security measures to safeguard Geneva's rights and titles, including a sophisticated key system and the appointment of specific custodians. This reflects a growing awareness of the importance of preserving legal and historical records. Perhaps most intriguingly, the establishment of a secretary role specifically for organizing city documents marks a significant step towards the professionalization of civic administration. This development offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of urban governance during this pivotal period. These administrative reforms provide a unique lens through which we can examine the broader societal changes occurring in Reformation-era Geneva. They reveal a city not only grappling with religious transformation but also actively working to modernize its governance structures. In our next episode, we'll delve deeper into how these administrative changes intersected with Calvin's theological reforms, exploring the complex interplay between religious ideology and practical governance in 16th-century Geneva. Stay tuned, historians, as we continue to unravel the fascinating administrative history of Reformation Geneva. ******** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In today's episode explores the fascinating history of illustrated books in Geneva from 1478 to 1600, delving into how political and religious shifts shaped their creation. We'll divide our journey into three key periods: the early Catholic era, the strictly Calvinist period, and the intellectually curious post-Calvin era. During Calvin's time, illustrated book production dwindled, reflecting his views on imagery. But after his death, illustrations made a comeback, especially in historical and scientific texts. We'll uncover how Genevan illustrations, while scarce, served a clear purpose, focusing on education and information rather than mere decoration. Finally, we'll highlight the significant influence of printers and engravers from Lyon and Basel, revealing the interconnectedness of the printing world. Join us as we uncover the fascinating story of illustrated books in Geneva, exploring the complex relationship between religion, politics, and artistic expression during this transformative time. ********** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In this episode, we delve into the intricate workings of Geneva's political institutions during a pivotal decade marked by the rise of the Reformation. Through an in-depth analysis of council records and historical documents, the study uncovers the mechanisms that shaped governance in the city. The research focuses on the Petit Conseil, Geneva's executive body, examining its internal hierarchy, attendance patterns, and discrepancies in official records. These details reveal how decisions were made and implemented during this transformative period. By highlighting the complexities of governance and avoiding broad generalizations about longer historical periods, this episode offers a nuanced perspective on Geneva's political life amidst the challenges of religious and institutional change. ********* This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of 16th-century Geneva in this captivating podcast exploring the complex relationship between luxury and austerity during the Reformation. We'll challenge the common perception of strict Calvinist austerity, revealing how sumptuary laws aimed for moderation rather than asceticism. Discover the meaning behind Geneva's motto "Post Tenebras Lux" (Light After Darkness) and its connection to the city's adoption of the Reformation. We'll uncover concrete examples of discreet luxury, particularly in book printing and binding, showcasing how opulence persisted in intimate ways despite religious reforms. The podcast will also delve into the challenges of understanding luxury during this period due to limited historical sources. Finally, we'll draw intriguing comparisons between John Calvin and Girolamo Savonarola, examining the parallels and differences in their attempts to impose moral austerity on their respective cities. This exploration of Geneva's "golden austerity" offers a nuanced view of how the Reformation shaped daily life, culture, and consumption in one of the most influential cities of the time. ********** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life? A historical podcast." Today, we're delighted to bring you an episode created by our special guests, Isabella Watt and Professor Jeff R. Watt, who are the editors of the "Registers of the Consistory of Geneva in the Time of Calvin". They invite us to dive into the juicy family drama of 16th-century Geneva, where even the great reformer John Calvin couldn't escape domestic turmoil. Picture this: Calvin, the stern moralist, suddenly finds himself playing stepdad to two rebellious teenagers. That's right, folks! When Calvin married Idelette de Bure in 1540, he inherited her children from a previous marriage: Jacob and Judith Tourneur. Talk about an instant family! Now, you might think Calvin's home would be a model of Protestant virtue, but oh boy, were these kids determined to test his patience. Judith, it seems, had a taste for scandal, getting caught up in an adulterous affair that set Geneva's gossip mill abuzz. Meanwhile, Jacob was busy living it up as Geneva's bad boy, his dissolute behavior making Calvin's hair even grayer than usual. But here's where it gets really interesting. Calvin, the man who helped establish Geneva's strict moral code, now had to watch as his own stepchildren were hauled before the Consistory - the very court he helped create to enforce godly behavior. Talk about awkward family dinners! Join us as we uncover how Calvin navigated this family crisis, balancing his roles as reformer, civic leader, and stepfather. Did he pull strings to protect his wayward stepchildren? Or did he let the full force of Geneva's moral law fall upon them? Tune in to find out how Calvin put his own house in order - or tried to - in this new episode of "Really Calvin, is this an ideal life?" ********** This historical popularization podcast is developed as part of the interdisciplinary project entitled "A semantic and multilingual online edition of the Registers of the Council of Geneva / 1545-1550" (RCnum) and developed by the University of Geneva (UNIGE), as part of funding from the Swiss National Scientific Research Fund (SNSF). For more information: https://www.unige.ch/registresconseilge/en. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.