Jesuit Sanctity: Hypothesizing the Continuity of a Hagiographic Narrative of the Modern Age

Abstract The introduction to this special issue provides some considerations on early modern sanctity as a historical object. It firstly presents the major shifts in developing idea of between late medieval period and nineteenth century, passing through construction its cultural, social, political implications. Secondly, it an overview main sources that allow historians retrace sanctity, especially canonization records hagiographies. Thirdly, offers ingenious role Society Jesus by highlighting ability employ, create, play with hagiographical models. Jesuit models are then presented (i.e., theologian, missionary, martyr, living saint), important reflection is reserved for specific martyrial character sanctity. assesses continuity discourse throughout long history order, from origins suppression restoration.