Late Medieval “Counseling”: Jean Gerson (1363-1419) as a Family Pastor

The writings of the most influential religious thinker and theologian of the fifteenth century, Jean Gerson (1363-1419), represent a rich mine for the study of medieval mentality, religious practice, and the relationship between parishioners and pastor. Above all, the combination of traditional and innovative attitudes makes his views on family life, conjugal responsibilities, marital jealousy, spousal abuse, and the education of children interesting to a modern audience. His opinions are far from typical for the fifteenth century, and many of his ideas represent exceptional rather than mainstream tendencies.