An index of the inquisition : 1546-1575

Abstract

The Bull Licet ab initio, issued on 21 July 1542 by Pope Paul Ill, created a totally reformed Inquisition. It was clearly Inspired by the recent success of the Spanish Inquisition, which in turn had been set up to suit the particular needs of the new and growing nation-empire that was Spain. This new Tribunal, more commonly known as the Holy Office, was mainly intended to oppose the doctrines of Luther and the other flourishing Protestant sects. The Holy Supreme Congregation, under Cardinal Giovanni Pietro Caraffa (later Pope Paul IV), gained among its many privileges that of creating Inquisitors who were to be given the appropriate number of staff to help them in any town, province, or place. The first attempt was also made to compile an Index of prohibited books deemed likely to propagate false teachings.