Confessionals Scented with Patchouli
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Des confessionnaux embaumant le patchouli
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Subtitle: Catholicisme et mondanité dans La Vie parisienne (1863-1900)
Alternative title(s): Patchouli scented confessionals. Catholicism and society life in La Vie parisienne (1863-1900)
Confesionarios que huelen a patchouli. Catolicismo y mundanidad en La Vie parisienne (1863-1900)
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Clara Sadoun-Édouard
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Des confessionnaux embaumant le patchouli
Year: 2014 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.25786
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article explores the dynamic relationship between Catholicism and Parisian high society during the late 19th century, specifically through the lens of the magazine La Vie parisienne. Published between 1863 and 1900, this periodical presents a narrative that juxtaposes playful irreverence towards the Church with underlying connections to Liberal Catholicism, as represented by Bishop Félix Dupanloup. The author Clara Sadoun-Édouard examines how the magazine, while maintaining a lighthearted tone, addresses serious societal issues intertwined with religious practices, revealing a unique cultural context in which Catholic values coexist with modernity.
The Role of La Vie parisienne in Social Commentary
La Vie parisienne serves as a crucial platform for reflecting the social mores of the Second Empire in France, catering primarily to a bourgeois audience that relishes in the luxuries of leisure and elegance. The magazine's programming combines flirtation with fashion, gossip, and light-hearted critiques of contemporary religious practices. This representation is instrumental in shaping and defining the societal norms of the upper classes, allowing readers to navigate their identities in a rapidly modernizing Paris while simultaneously maintaining connections to their Catholic heritage, albeit often in a satirized context.
Dupanloup and Liberal Catholicism
Bishop Félix Dupanloup plays a significant role in the interplay between the Church and the bourgeoisie. He represents a strain of Liberal Catholicism that seeks reconciliation between traditional Catholic values and the modern societal landscape. His efforts are reflected in the attitudes of La Vie parisienne, which often critiques political and religious conservatism while also embodying the spirit of modern Victorian life. Dupanloup's advocacy for education, particularly for women, mirrors the shifting expectations and roles within both the Church and society, combining piety with progressivism.
The Intersection of Religion, Fashion, and Eros
One of the unique aspects highlighted in the article is the interplay between religion, fashion, and eroticism as depicted in the magazine. La Vie parisienne thrives on the notion that religious spaces and practices can be intertwined with sensuality and social spectacle. The magazine celebrates the aesthetics of churches as public forums for elegance and charm, turning the act of attending religious services into a display of fashion and social status. This approach integrates spiritual and secular desires, suggesting that even religious observance can be transformed into a means of social distinction and allure.
The Gendered Nature of Religious Practices
The magazine also emphasizes gender dynamics, largely catering to a readership that is both female and male. It fosters a voyeuristic pleasure through its portrayal of the female experience within religious and social contexts, often framing women as central figures in the intersection of piety and modernity. The article discusses female contributors such as Brada and Gyp, who navigate their roles as writers and representatives of Catholic women in a male-dominated literary landscape. This dual influence of Dupanloup, serving both as a spiritual guide and a protector of their literary endeavors, illustrates the complexities of women's agency within the confines of societal expectations and religious practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the relationship between Catholicism and Parisian high society as explored in La Vie parisienne showcases a multifaceted dialogue between modernity and tradition. The magazine not only serves as a mirror reflecting societal values and conflicts but also as a vehicle for exploring the evolving identity of the Catholic community amidst the backdrop of an expanding modern culture. The influence of figures like Dupanloup reveals a nuanced reconciliation of faith and fashion, allowing for a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding religion and social life in late 19th-century Paris.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of Clara Sadoun-Édouard's paper?
The paper examines the relationship between Catholicism and high society in Paris through the lens of the magazine La Vie parisienne from 1863 to 1900.
How does the paper analyze La Vie parisienne's content?
The paper discusses how La Vie parisienne, despite its irreverent tone, maintains connections and shares goals with liberal Catholicism, particularly represented by Bishop Dupanloup.
When was La Vie parisienne first published?
La Vie parisienne was established in 1863 and became influential in the social landscape of Paris during the Second Empire.
What themes are explored in La Vie parisienne?
The magazine addresses themes like elegance, leisure, and the intersection of religious and societal life, depicting Catholicism within the context of modern Paris.
Who was Bishop Félix Dupanloup?
Bishop Dupanloup was a prominent figure who advocated liberal Catholicism and supported education for women, embodying the connection between society and faith during this period.
What role does the concept of 'gallicanism' play in the paper?
Gallicanism refers to the idea of a French national church, which is explored in the context of La Vie parisienne's societal critiques and relationships with the clergy.
What historical context does the paper provide for its analysis?
The analysis is contextualized within the transformations of Paris during the Second Empire, highlighting the blend of faith, modernity, and high society.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Confessionals Scented with Patchouli”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: #Pari#]
2) Woman (Women):
The term 'woman' reflects the focus on femininity in La Vie parisienne, where women are often depicted in relation to their societal roles, their beauty, and their spiritual lives. The magazine illustrates the complexities of their identities as both religious practitioners and participants in the pleasures of Parisian high society.
3) Worldly:
The term 'worldly' signifies the lavish lifestyle celebrated in La Vie parisienne, a magazine that merges secular pleasures with aspects of Catholicism. The magazine aims to capture the essence of Parisian high society, emphasizing a lifestyle that embraces both the sacred and the profane, simultaneously allowing for indulgence amidst the backdrop of religious practices and morals.
4) Education:
Education in the context of Catholicism, especially through figures like Mgr Dupanloup, focuses on cultivating spiritual and intellectual growth among women. Dupanloup emphasized providing women with an education that equips them for their roles in society while retaining their Catholic faith, indicating a transformation in societal attitudes towards female education during this period.
5) Religion:
Religion serves as a crucial framework in La Vie parisienne, wherein the portrayal of Catholicism intertwines with worldly experiences and modern life. The magazine reveals a playful engagement with religious themes, showcasing how faith becomes part of the social fabric and everyday life in Paris, impacting perceptions of identity and piety.
6) Book:
Books are not only conduits of knowledge and faith but also commodities within La Vie parisienne, where literary discussions serve to highlight the intersection of culture and Catholic doctrine. The magazine critiques and parodies literary works that challenge or uphold contemporary religious views, illustrating the market dynamics of ideas in the 19th-century Paris.
7) Faith:
Faith is depicted as both a guiding principle and a topic of debate in La Vie parisienne. The magazine illustrates how faith can coexist with modernity and pleasure, presenting a nuanced exploration of how beliefs are shaped in a changing social landscape, oscillating between devotion and the allure of worldly distraction.
8) Literature:
Literature is a prominent theme in La Vie parisienne, with the magazine both critiquing and celebrating various literary works. This engagement indicates a robust dialogue about the role of literature in shaping public sentiment around religion and its implications for Parisian society, revealing the lightness and complexity of narrative forms.
9) Image:
[see source text or glossary: #Image#]
10) Light:
Light serves as a metaphor for knowledge and enlightenment in La Vie parisienne, denoting both the actual illumination of Paris and the broader cultural and spiritual guidance offered by religion. The interplay between light and shadow symbolizes the tension between modernity and tradition, reflecting religious practices in a secular setting.
11) Pleasure:
Pleasure is a central theme in La Vie parisienne, embodying the spirit of indulgent lifestyles that characterize the publication. The magazine celebrates the enjoyment of life's pleasures, juxtaposed with Catholic ideals, creating a discourse that questions and examines the intersections of faith and hedonism within Parisian society.
12) Love:
Love, intertwined with concepts of devotion and desire, represents the multifaceted nature of relationships within La Vie parisienne. The exploration of love includes the romantic, familial, and divine, reflecting the complexity of human connections and the expectations around femininity and societal roles.
13) City:
The city of Paris acts as a backdrop and character in La Vie parisienne, symbolizing modernity and the vibrancy of social life. The publication not only chronicles the cultural milieu of the capital but also engages with the evolving identity and moral landscape of urban dwellers as they navigate the dualities of religious and secular life.
14) Geography:
[see source text or glossary: #Geography#]
15) Spiritual:
Spirituality in La Vie parisienne encompasses the religious practices and beliefs that permeate high society, reflecting a nuanced understanding of faith amid secular indulgence. The magazine illustrates how spirituality becomes entwined with everyday experiences, offering a glimpse into the emotional and moral lives of its readers.
16) Child (Children):
[see source text or glossary: #Child#]
17) Debate:
Debate emerges as a critical element in La Vie parisienne, particularly in discussions around literature, religion, and societal norms. The magazine fosters an environment where various perspectives on faith and morality are articulated, challenging readers to engage with the changing moral landscape of their time.
18) Lightness:
Lightness embodies the playful and irreverent tone of La Vie parisienne, where the magazine’s approach to serious subjects, like religion, is infused with humor and wit. This contrast allows for an exploration of faith in a context where enjoyment and frivolity also hold significance in the sphere of high society.
19) Freedom:
Freedom is a recurring theme in La Vie parisienne, representing both the social liberties enjoyed by its readership and the spiritual freedoms advocated by liberal Catholicism. The interplay between freedom and morality reflects the broader cultural shifts occurring during the Second Empire, creating dialogue between tradition and modernity.
20) Costume:
Costume serves as a representation of identity and performance within La Vie parisienne, linking fashion with religious and social narratives. The magazine often celebrates elaborate clothing, emphasizing how attire becomes a medium for expression in the context of worldly and spiritual life in Paris.
21) Family:
Family is central to the discussions present in La Vie parisienne, particularly in relation to the roles of women and the influence of Catholic doctrine on familial structures. The magazine promotes new ideals of family life that embrace both traditional values and modern sensibilities.
22) Discussion:
Discussion around moral and societal norms is pervasive in La Vie parisienne, inviting readers to engage with ideas pertinent to their lives. This dialogue reflects the tensions between established religious beliefs and evolving societal expectations, framed within the context of high society.
23) Reflection:
Reflection within La Vie parisienne often pertains to the contemplation of identity, faith, and modernity within the social milieu of Paris. The magazine encourages readers to consider their positions in society and their relationships to religious values in an increasingly secular world.
24) Mythology:
Mythology in the context of La Vie parisienne refers to the constructed narratives of Parisian life that blend historical and societal elements with contemporary pleasures. The magazine creates a mythology that intertwines Catholic themes with modern lifestyles, fostering a unique cultural identity.
25) Eloquence:
Eloquence is portrayed through the figures of speakers and writers within La Vie parisienne, emphasizing the role of articulate expression in shaping public opinion around faith and society. The magazine reflects a culture that values spoken and written word as mechanisms for persuasion and influence.
26) Scruples:
Scruples denote the moral reservations some characters in La Vie parisienne express regarding their faith and social practices. This tension highlights the complexities of navigating personal beliefs within the broader societal landscape, where indulgence occasionally muddles moral clarity.
27) Violent:
Violent interactions, especially in the literary critiques within La Vie parisienne, contrast with the lighthearted themes present in the magazine. The juxtaposition of humor and sharp commentary showcases the cultural debates around faith, morality, and modernity in a transformative Parisian society.
28) Devotion (Devoted):
Devotion embodies the spiritual commitments that characters in La Vie parisienne embody. The publication examines how devotion can manifest in both traditional and modern expressions, bridging the distance between faith, morality, and the aspirations of high society.
29) Thomas:
[see source text or glossary: #Thomas#]
30) Flower:
[see source text or glossary: #Flower#]
31) Wealth:
Wealth plays a significant role in shaping the narratives within La Vie parisienne, as the magazine often highlights the lifestyles of the affluent. This focus examines the relationship between economic power, social status, and the performance of religious observance among the elite.
32) Speech:
Speech captures the art of communication present in La Vie parisienne, where witty dialogue and commentary serve to convey complex ideas around faith and society. The magazine reflects a culture where oratory and written expression impact how Catholic values are perceived and practiced.
33) Desire:
Desire in La Vie parisienne reflects the yearnings of its characters, intertwining sensuality with aspirations for social advancement. The magazine explores how desires are both formed and suppressed under the influences of Catholicism and societal expectations.
34) Praise:
Praise is often directed towards the figures that embody the virtues promoted by La Vie parisienne, particularly when discussing piety alongside physical beauty. This duality expresses an appreciation for attributes that are both divine and secular, complicating the relationships between faith and the aesthetic.
35) Power:
Power dynamics in La Vie parisienne highlight the influence of both Catholic authority and high society in shaping public discourse. The magazine navigates these power relations, considering how individuals exercise agency within the constraints of religion and social hierarchy.
36) Taste:
Taste refers to the cultivated preferences of characters within La Vie parisienne, showcasing how aesthetics and sensibility shape identities in a world where social status is paramount. This notion of taste intertwines with religious and cultural values, revealing the multifaceted nature of Parisian life.
37) Dream (Dreaming):
Dreams in La Vie parisienne reflect the aspirations and fantasies of its characters, often captured within the context of their pursuits for pleasure and societal acceptance. The magazine depicts how these dreams coexist with more serious commitments to faith and duty.
38) Hour:
[see source text or glossary: #Hour#]
39) Way of life:
The way of life celebrated in La Vie parisienne intersects with notions of leisure, spirituality, and cultural practices that define high society. The magazine invites readers to embrace a lifestyle that harmonizes worldly enjoyment with religious observance, presenting a dualistic yet cohesive identity.
40) Most eminent:
The most eminent figures in La Vie parisienne signify the influential personalities within Parisian society who negotiate their public and spiritual identities. These individuals highlight the magazine’s role in shaping narratives about culture, morality, and authority.
41) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
The transformation of societal norms is a major theme in La Vie parisienne, reflecting the shifts that occurred in Parisian identity amidst modernity. The magazine reveals how religion adapts and evolves within this changing landscape, responding to new cultural pressures and audiences.
42) Manifest (Manifested, Manifestation, Manifesting):
Manifestation captures the visible expressions of societal and religious engagement in La Vie parisienne, illustrating how faith and culture are interwoven in everyday life. The magazine showcases various manifestations of Catholicism as a part of the vibrant Parisian scene.
43) Civilization:
Civilization as addressed in La Vie parisienne emphasizes the development of societal norms and values in the face of modernity. The magazine positions itself as both an observer and participant in this civilization, reflecting the complexities of faith and pleasure in urban life.
44) Pacification:
Pacification pertains to the efforts made to reconcile modern societal trends with Catholic doctrine, as illustrated in La Vie parisienne. The magazine serves as a medium through which the church seeks to maintain a calming presence amid societal upheaval and changing values.
45) Celebration:
Celebration within La Vie parisienne reflects the joyful aspects of high society life, particularly in how these celebrations are intertwined with rituals of Catholicism. The magazine captures the exuberance of events, portraying them as significant cultural happenings that also affirm faith.
46) Pilgrimage:
Pilgrimage in La Vie parisienne may symbolize both physical and metaphorical journeys made by individuals seeking connection with the divine amidst everyday distractions. Such journeys represent the interplay between spirituality and the allure of city life.
47) Compassion:
Compassion is reflected in the ways characters within La Vie parisienne navigate their moral obligations to others in a rapidly changing world. The magazine portrays moments of empathy as important aspects of the social interactions that define Parisian life.
48) Partiality:
Partiality indicates the biases present within discussions around morality and faith in La Vie parisienne. This suggests a complexity in how individuals may approach religious beliefs while simultaneously embracing the liberal attitudes of their society.
49) Discipline:
Discipline signals the moral rigor that some characters in La Vie parisienne may struggle against in their quest for pleasure. The magazine explores the tension between adherence to religious principles and the desire for personal freedom and enjoyment.
50) Revolution:
Revolution denotes the societal upheavals occurring during the time period of La Vie parisienne. These transformations challenge the established norms of faith and identity, creating a fertile ground for new expressions of culture and Catholic beliefs.
51) Happiness:
Happiness is a frequent theme that underscores the pursuit of pleasure as a reflection of one's social and spiritual life in La Vie parisienne. The magazine suggests that true happiness can emerge when faith and enjoyment coexist harmoniously.
52) Knowledge:
Knowledge shapes the narratives around education and faith, as seen in the literary explorations within La Vie parisienne. The quest for knowledge frames both personal growth and societal advancement, challenging traditional perceptions of morality in light of new ideas.
53) Evolution:
Evolution signifies the dynamic transformations occurring within Parisian society, particularly as they relate to religious practices and the influence of modernity. La Vie parisienne captures this evolution, highlighting how individuals and institutions adapt to changing cultural landscapes.
54) Lightning:
[see source text or glossary: #Lightning#]
55) Confusion (Confused):
Confusion arises as a common theme in La Vie parisienne, particularly in the interactions between faith and modern life. The magazine reflects on the complexities that characterize the era, portraying a society caught between pious sentiments and secular indulgence.
56) Erotic (Eroticism):
Eroticism is an undercurrent in La Vie parisienne, where the magazine artfully addresses the sensual dimensions of Parisian life. The interplay of eroticism with religious themes illustrates the multifaceted nature of identity and desire within the society it portrays.
57) Doctrine:
Doctrine represents the formal teachings of the Catholic Church that are engaged with critically in La Vie parisienne. The magazine reflects on how these doctrines are received and interpreted by its readership, often in light of modern social experiences.
58) Merchant:
Merchant activities are emblematic of the consumerist tendencies present within La Vie parisienne, showcasing how commercial interests can intersect with religious observance and identity. The magazine engages with the commodification of faith in the social arena.
59) Marriage:
Marriage highlights the intertwining of love, societal expectation, and religious sanctioning in La Vie parisienne. The magazine explores how marital relationships reflect broader themes of faith and social stability amidst the allure of worldly pleasures.
60) Dialogue:
Dialogue encapsulates the interactions encapsulated in La Vie parisienne, where various voices raise questions about religion, morality, and culture. This dialogue fosters a critical examination of the contemporary social fabric and allows different perspectives to coexist.
61) Shoulder:
[see source text or glossary: #Shoulder#]
62) Identity:
Identity in La Vie parisienne is explored through the lens of societal roles and religious affiliations, particularly how these intersect to create complex personas. The magazine captures the fluidity of identity amidst shifting cultural norms and expectations.
63) Torment:
Torment indicates the internal struggles faced by individuals in La Vie parisienne as they grapple with their religious beliefs while pursuing secular pleasures. This tension reflects broader societal dilemmas regarding faith and modernity.
64) Singing:
Singing is often symbolic of joyous expression in La Vie parisienne, whether in religious settings or societal gatherings. The act of singing becomes a celebration of culture and faith, embodying the duality of piety and revelry.
65) Grammar:
[see source text or glossary: #Grammar#]
66) Feeling:
Feeling pertains to the emotive experiences captured in La Vie parisienne, highlighting how affection and spirituality interplay in the lives of characters. The magazine reflects the emotional landscape of Parisian life, where personal sentiments influence interactions with faith.
67) Worship:
Worship within La Vie parisienne is depicted as both a private act and a public spectacle, reflective of the ritual practices of Catholicism in the public sphere. The magazine illustrates how worship intertwines with the aesthetics of high society celebrations, creating an alluring dynamic.
68) Charity:
Charity acts as a core value within La Vie parisienne, signifying the social obligations and religious motivations that drive charitable acts among the wealthy. This interplay reveals a culture where philanthropy becomes an expression of both faith and social duty.
69) Evening:
[see source text or glossary: #Evening#]
70) Jewelry:
Jewelry serves as a metaphor for luxury and status in La Vie parisienne, showcasing the material expressions of wealth among its readership. The magazine intricately weaves together the aesthetics of beauty, spirituality, and social identity in a world characterized by consumption.
71) Network:
Network conveys the intricate social connections present in La Vie parisienne, particularly within the circles of high society and religious communities. These networks reflect the connections between individuals and institutions, facilitating exchanges that shape public sentiment.
72) Theatrical show (Theatre):
Theatre represents an essential component of Parisian culture as portrayed in La Vie parisienne, where performances create spaces for both entertainment and reflection on societal values. The magazine captures the fusion of art and life, allowing for a dialogue about morality and pleasure.
73) Samedi:
[see source text or glossary: #Samedi#]
74) Artiga:
[see source text or glossary: #Artiga#]
75) Weapon:
Weapon symbolizes the tools of influence present in La Vie parisienne, where media serves as a powerful instrument for shaping societal norms and perceptions around faith and culture. The magazine's irreverent tone becomes a weapon against traditional views, encouraging readers to engage with modernity.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 119]