LAUSR

consistory members were from governing councils. Minimizing potential conflict was the consistory bringing together select council members and the pastors, an organizational stroke of genius, encouraging collaboration between Frenchmen and native Genevans. Deliberating together weekly helped to bridge the gap. By 1556, Calvin appeared to be able to tighten the discipline further, expand the consistory’s field of action, and strengthen punishments, but Calvin’s victory was not so complete as to make that easily possible. Jeffrey Watt points out Calvin’s difficulties in his artfully crafted introduction (xv–xxiii). Watt also places consistory records in historical context. Not all Genevans were enthusiastic about the many immigrants and refugees in sixteenth-century Geneva. Some Genevans resisted the discipline French pastors brought, for the consistory condemned not only breeches of the Ten Commandments such as sexual promiscuity or usury (which could be considered a form of stealing) but also castigated people for dancing, gambling, card playing, participating in certain other games, indiscrete songs, and criticizing the pastors or the French. The consistory did not condemn drinking alcohol per se. Indeed, the city partially paid pastors in wine. The consistory did condemn excessive drinking; rowdyism, especially in the inns; and alcoholism. Genevan consistory records are transcribed from some of the most difficult sixteenth-century court reporting. The editors provide a glossary of sixteenth-century French. This volume is indexed in three separate categories: subjects, places, and names of persons. The appendix lists syndics, other officers, dates of the Lord’s Supper for 1556, and members of the Small Council. The Watts thoroughly research Genevan records, including the city council. The copious footnotes identify every locale and individual. Prior and future appearances of individuals before the consistory are noted. Consistory records, useful for doctoral dissertations and scholarly papers, are indispensable for academic libraries, serious scholars, and even church libraries.