Calvin: A Biography

by Bernard Cottret

Widely acclaimed in its French edition, this sterling biography of John Calvin sheds new light on the great Reformer�s personality by concentrating on the milieu in which he did his life�s work.

In the largest part of the book, Bernard Cottret develops a chronological examination of Calvin�s life, from his birth in Noyon to his ministry and administration in Geneva. In the final chapters Cottret explores thematic aspects of Calvin�s persona� Calvin the polemicist, the preacher, and the writer�and looks with greater depth at Calvin�s foremost work, the Institutes of the Christian Religion.

Balanced, cogent, and written with literary beauty, this biography will take its place among the best�and most enjoyable�portraits of Calvin�s life, work, and lasting influence.

Genres: Biography, History, Church History, Nonfiction, Religion

376 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 13, 1995

Reviews

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good work on Calvin. I felt that it was easy to get to the heart of his story without veneration or villainy. Calvin was explained in his context, he was examined within his world, and he was appreciated for his genius and theological contributions. However, his errors and mistakes were hardly glossed over allowing a real man to emerge from the shadows of Calvinism which usually hides his picture. The translation was good but it was a little awkward at times and this made the reading a little dry in spots.

[Michael · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed

While I found the book interesting, I was disappointed to learn that Cottret, a historian, propagated historical untruths about Calvin parroted by secondary biased sources such as Bolzac (who despised Calvin). Cotrett repeated several times that Calvin believed the earth was the center of the universe. He also mischaracterized Calvin’s involvement in the Servetus affair. For a more scholarly take on a life of John Calvin, I would recommend Alistair McGrath’s work.

[David Cooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well a statement made by the author pretty much sums it up, Luther’s the guy you might wanna grab a beer with and Calvin is definitely not... Great work by the author but Calvin’s life story isn’t particularly exciting.

[Eli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and important life. I appreciated Cottret's analysis of Calvin on many points, but thought that he failed to capture the spirit of the man. Still well worth reading.

[Jess Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Une biographie dont j'ai beaucoup aimé la lecture. Pleine d'informations sans jamais être lourde, l'auteur parvient à nous transmettre une passion palpable sur son sujet.
Il se permet quelques avis et opinions personnelles mais sans être invasif.
Je recommande fortement.