ABSTRACT
Louis XIV intervened decisively, frequently and disastrously in religious affairs. He crossed swords with the Papacy, the Gallicans, the Huguenots, the Jansenists and the Pietists–among others. The motivation for Louis XIV's frequent religious initiatives and confrontations must be sought in his upbringing, his opinions and his loyalties. Louis cared deeply about his religious responsibilities. He was a serious Catholic. Louis never acquired a deep understanding of Christianity. In September 1685, by the Edict of Fontainebleau, Louis XIV revoked the Edict of Nantes of 1598. Louis allowed himself to be convinced by his clergy and advisers, such as Chancellor Le Tellier and his new wife Mme de Maintenon, that the hour was at hand. Louis XIV's conduct with regard to the Jansenists was even more counterproductive than his treatment of the Huguenots – though, to be fair, not as vicious. The persecution of the Jansenists shows Louis at his worst.
