Introspection in Jean Gerson (1363–1429)
Church History and Religious Culture July 6, 2026 DOI: 10.1163/18712428-bja10095 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractIntrospective Christian practices, including innovations in confession, contemplation, self-reflection, and spiritual relationality, are typically linked to early modern theologians. This analysis shows that these same characteristics appear in the works of the late medieval theologian Jean Gerson, indicating that such introspective tendencies emerged earlier than often assumed.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Introspection Medieval history Church history Object grammar Eternity |
| Key finding | Argues that characteristics of Christian introspection usually attributed to early modern theologians are present in the writings of the late medieval theologian Jean Gerson. |
Abstract
Abstract Christian introspection has been associated with specific tendencies: innovations in confessional/contemplative practices, auto-reflection, and spiritual relationality. This study aims to demonstrate that these characteristics, generally attributed to early modern theologians, are present in the writings of the late medieval theologian Jean Gerson.