Preaching and politics in the Welsh Marches, 1643–63: the case of Alexander Griffith*

Abstract This article considers the nature and development of episcopalian identities attitudes during mid-seventeenth century by examining case Alexander Griffith. Griffith has been known to historians as an unbending ‘Anglican’, exemplar obdurate royalism a man who was in vanguard resistance puritan experiments Wales 1640s 1650s. However, discovery Griffith’s sermon book Folger Shakespeare Library throws different light on his career opinions. sermons reveal that he made accommodations with local Presbyterians even helped head-up their campaign introduce Directory for Public Worship into Marches. The provides opportunity new more nuanced reading numerous tracts published against Commission Propagation Gospel argues both works implacable opponent radical separatists, but willing accommodate adapt moderate parliamentarian regimes. His position shifted at Restoration when articulated conviction two high profile assize Act Uniformity provided best defence spectre religion political dissolution. reveals important figure than generally acknowledged religious positions were complex previous studies have allowed.