History of the Jesuits: Their origin, progress, doctrines, and designs

by G. B. (Giovanni Battista) Nicolini

"History of the Jesuits: Their Origin, Progress, Doctrines, and Designs" by G. B. Nicolini is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work examines the establishment and influence of the Jesuit order, founded by Ignatius Loyola, detailing its origins during the Reformation and the subsequent impact it had on European society, politics, and religion. Nicolini presents a critical perspective on the Society of Jesus, exploring its purported objectives and actions that he views as detrimental to Protestantism and civil liberties, thus setting the tone for an inquiry into the complex legacy of the Jesuits. The opening of the book introduces Nicolini's motivations for writing this account, highlighting his belief in the necessity of a thorough examination of the Jesuits against a backdrop of historical context. He articulates the challenges of portraying the true nature of the Jesuits, describing them as chameleonic figures who adapt to varying circumstances while maintaining a deceptive façade. Nicolini hints at the rivalry between Protestantism and the Catholic Church, framing the Jesuits as both a product and a counteraction to the Reformation—a brotherhood born from an urgent response to the spread of new Protestant doctrines. The initial chapters promise a detailed biography of Loyola himself, outlining his journey from a soldier to a foundational saint, while also presenting the broader societal upheavals of 16th century Europe that paved the way for the Jesuits' rise.