Pascal, Jansenists and Jesuits: Panglossia Explores 17th-Century Debate
Writes Joshua R. (U6th)
In Panglossia this week, Mme Kotsuba gave an insightful talk titled “To what extent did Pascal succeed in popularising the Jansenist-Jesuit controversy?” The talk was based on Pascal’s Les Lettres Provinciales, writings of the 17th century in French which defended Jansenism (as Pascal was a Jansenist himself) whilst criticising Jesuit theology. The presentation unpacked both theologies, highlighting that Jansenists believed that salvation depended on the divine grace of God whereas, in contrast, Jesuits believed salvation was dependent on free will and therefore seems more accessible but also excessively permissive, in Pascal’s view.
The letters were largely influential and shifted the public in favour towards the idea of a more independent Catholic church in France.
Panglossia extends a huge thank you to Mme Kostuba for taking the time to supplement the knowledge of all those who attended. Panglossia is a brilliant opportunity to develop your interests in a range of topics, primarily related to all things associated with Modern Foreign Languages. We meet weekly during the Hour on a Thursday.
