ABSTRACT
The Reformation period in France has traditionally been viewed as a time of deep division which brought about a polarization that sometimes appeared to operate as a way of defining systems of belief. This antagonistic 'dialogue' between Protestant and Catholic authorities helped to define doctrine and underscore differences; when these differences led to civil war, it no doubt seemed unwise to depart from the position outlined by one's Church. Generalizations about Benoist's work have frequently been uncomplimentary regarding the tone and content of his writing. For many, he has appeared to slot neatly into the category of so-called 'typical' Counter-Reformation polemicist, with little to distinguish him from the rest. Benoist's commitment to his French Bible demonstrates that he was prepared to go against the wishes of the Faculty of Theology and, in spirit at the very least, against Rome, in order to promote the instruction of the Catholic laity by means of books in the vernacular.
