Saintete et Lumieres. Hagiographie, Spiritualite et propagande religieuse dans la France du XVIIIe siecle

Contrary to the traditional perception that sainthood declined during the Enlightenment, Eric Suire's study reveals a resurgence of interest and production in hagiographical literature in 18th-century France. The research demonstrates that the number of hagiographical editions published between 1761–88 surpassed those from 1680–1715, indicating sustained public fascination with miracles and saintly figures. Suire argues that this renewed interest was driven by both lay curiosity and the Counter-Reformation's canonization efforts, notably under Pope Clement XI (1700–21). The study also highlights the integration of worldly narrative techniques, such as the epistolary novel, into hagiographical works, reflecting a shift from legendary saints to more recent, historically grounded figures. This evolution is exemplified by the inclusion of minor local saints in Bourges Cathedral's choir, completed in the 1760s, alongside relics like Saint-Etienne.

Aston, N. (2012). Saintete et Lumieres. Hagiographie, Spiritualite et propagande religieuse dans la France du XVIIIe siecle. French History, 26(1), 121–122. https://doi.org/10.1093/fh/crs003