
audiobook
by William Sime
This volume offers a compact yet thorough survey of the institution known as the Inquisition, tracing its origins from medieval papal directives through its early expansion across Europe. Drawing on a wide range of contemporary accounts, the author outlines how the tribunal was created to identify and punish alleged heresy, revealing the legal procedures, secretive nature, and the human cost of its first century of activity. The narrative stays accessible, providing clear explanations for readers who may only have time for a brief study while still pointing toward deeper research.
The focus then shifts to the Spanish branch, where the Inquisition reached its most infamous peak under figures such as Tomás de Torquemada and later monarchs who extended its reach. Detailed yet concise case studies illustrate the persecution of dissenters, Jews, and Muslims, showing how the tribunal's authority was exercised and resisted. By weaving together official documents, eyewitness testimonies, and scholarly commentary, the book paints a vivid picture of an institution that shaped religious and political life for centuries.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (306K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2017-02-06
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

A Scottish writer and journalist best remembered for popular history and biography, he wrote in a clear, accessible style aimed at general readers. His books often brought big historical subjects to life without academic fuss.
View all books