# Catholic Anti-Clericalism explained — Saint Joan

> Chapter companion for Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw.

## What happens

This chapter explores the concept of anti-clericalism within Catholicism, arguing that one can be both a good Catholic and an anti-clerical. It cites reforming Popes and great religious orders as examples of anti-clericalism arising from dissatisfaction with clergy. The chapter distinguishes between denouncing individual priests and denying the Church's role in the souls of the people, a step Joan of Arc virtually took.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Reason

The chapter contrasts the authority of the Church with individual conscience, a key tension in Joan's story.

### Heresy and Sanctity

The discussion of anti-clericalism and Joan's step beyond mere criticism touches on the boundary between reform and heresy.

## Character check-ins

### Joan of Arc

Joan is referenced as having virtually taken the step of denying that the souls of the people are no business of the Churchmen.

## Key lines

> All the reforming Popes have been vehement anti-Clericals, veritable scourges of the clergy.

Reforming Popes have been strong critics of the clergy.

_Highlights that anti-clericalism is not inherently anti-Catholic._

> Joan virtually took that step.

Joan essentially crossed the line from criticizing clergy to challenging the Church's authority over souls.

_Connects the general discussion of anti-clericalism to Joan's specific actions._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se/chapters/catholic-anti-clericalism
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se/chapters