Les conceptions de l'enfer en France au XIVe siècle : imaginaire et pouvoir

Conceptions of Hell in 14th Century France Imagination and Power In contrast to the view which sees only stereotypes and repetitiveness in representations of hell, this article demonstrates that they are the object of strong tensions If infernal motifs, transposing earthly fears, necessarily use fundamental schemas distress, then one observes in the 14th century la connection evolving between such motifs and the penalties of earthly justice and stille more the implementation of punishments. Furthermore, it is necessary to avoid believing that hell was everywhere and always an object of terror. In fact, the 14th century is the decisive stage in the effort lead to strengthen the fear of hell. The texts testify to a new severity, a greater concern for linking each punishment with the transgression it punishes, and the retreat of conception of a hell which is provisional or reserved for certain sinners only. Increasingly the theme of hell is subordinated to its ideological function.Baschet Jérôme. Les conceptions de l'enfer en France au XIVe siècle : imaginaire et pouvoir. In: Annales. Economies, sociétés, civilisations. 40ᵉ année, N. 1, 1985. pp. 185-207