Divisions over religion: Arminianism and Laudianism; Puritanism and the…

The idea

Religious divisions deepened significantly during Charles I's reign, polarising society. Arminianism, which rejected Calvinist predestination in favour of free will, gained royal favour. This evolved into Laudianism under Archbishop William Laud, emphasising the 'beauty of holiness', clerical authority, and strict uniformity through altar rails and vestments. Conversely, Puritanism sought to purify the Church of these 'popish' remnants, viewing Laudian reforms as a Catholic conspiracy. As political and religious crises merged, radical Puritanism fostered the emergence of Millenarianism—the belief in Christ's imminent thousand-year reign on Earth. This apocalyptic worldview motivated radicals to actively overthrow the existing order.

What earns the marks

• Explain the core tenets of Arminianism, such as the rejection of predestination, and how Charles I's promotion of Arminian clerics alienated Calvinists.
• Analyse Laudian reforms, such as moving the communion table and enforcing the Book of Sports, as catalysts for widespread religious opposition.
• Evaluate the Puritan reaction to Laudianism, focusing on fears of a Catholic revival and the resulting emigration or radicalisation.
• Assess the impact of Millenarianism on the political crisis, noting how apocalyptic beliefs justified armed resistance and radical political change.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Equating Arminianism directly with Catholicism.

  Put it right by explaining it was a Protestant doctrine that rejected Calvinist predestination but retained ceremonial elements.

• Treating Puritanism as a single, unified movement.

  Put it right by distinguishing between moderate Puritans who wanted internal reform and radicals who embraced Millenarianism.

• Assuming Millenarianism was a mainstream belief.

  Put it right by identifying it as a radical fringe movement that gained disproportionate influence during the breakdown of authority.

Exam tips

• Use specific examples of Laudian reforms, such as the altar controversy, to demonstrate how theological debates affected ordinary parishioners.
• Link religious divisions directly to political conflict, showing how fears of 'popery' undermined trust in Charles I's government.
• When discussing Millenarianism, reference the context of the 1640s crisis to explain why apocalyptic ideas suddenly gained traction.