Urbain Grandier
French priest and exorcist

Born
1590
435 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1634
390 years ago — 44 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
A French priest served in the city of Loudun, played a significant role in the infamous Loudun possessions. Accused of witchcraft and possession, a sensational trial ensued, drawing attention to religious and social tensions of the time. Grandier's trial became a prominent case reflecting the conflicts between secular authority and religious belief. Ultimately, faced with execution, his story contributed to the discussion surrounding hysteria and mass possession in early modern Europe.
Conducted the exorcism of the Ursuline nuns in Loudun
Was tried and executed for witchcraft
Inspired the novel 'La Révélée' by Aldous Huxley
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