Catholicism in the province of Armagh, 1603-1641

Abstract

The thesis explores the evolution of Roman Catholicism in the province of Armagh from 1603 to 1641. The ecclesiastical province of Armagh embraces Ulster together with north Leinster, which in the catholic community of the early seventeenth century were areas of broadly Gaelic and Anglo-Irish culture, respectively. The period covered ranges from the end of the Nine Years War in 1603 to the eve of the breakdown of 1641. Four main categories of sources are used. Documentation of catholic provenance includes records of Vatican departments; decrees of provincial synods in Ireland; reports, correspondence, and contemporary histories emanating from the religious orders; wills; catholic correspondence in the State Papers; and contemporary works in defence of the catholic cause. A second category comprises reports, correspondence, and other writings of Church of Ireland provenance. Government records constitute a third category; exchequer papers, presentments of recusants, and the records of the court of castle chamber. The final major category is correspondence to and from government officials, in the State Papers.