Jean Marteilhe Livres

The Huguenot Galley-Slave is the autobiography of a French Protestant condemned to the galley's for the sake of his religion. By the Edict of Nantes, Henry IV, in the year 1598, guaranteed to his Protestant subjects liberty of conscience and of worship, absolute security to person and property, and equal rights and privileges before the law. The Edict continued in force for nearly ninety years, though its stipulations were often violated, and under one pretense or another, the Protestants suffered frequent persecutions. But on the 22nd of October, 1685, it was revoked by Louis XIV. The Reformed pastors were commanded to leave the kingdom within fifteen days, under pain of the galleys. All Protestant worship was interdicted, both in public and private, and the temples were ordered to be razed to the ground. The Protestant schools were to be closed forthwith; and all children born after the date of the Revocation were to be baptized by the parish priests, and brought up as Roman Catholics. Refugees were enjoined to return and abjure their faith within four months, under penalty of confiscation and outlawry. Protestants attempting to escape from the kingdom were sentenced to the galleys. Adults who had been brought up in the Reformed faith were allowed to remain " until it shall please God to enlighten them."

The memoir recounts the harrowing experiences of Jean Marteilhe, a Protestant who faced persecution after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Captured while trying to escape to Protestant countries, he was condemned to serve as a galley slave in the French Mediterranean. His vivid narrative sheds light on the brutal realities of life in the galleys, detailing the physical punishments he and fellow inmates endured, including whippings and the threat of death. Marteilhe's account stands as a rare and authentic glimpse into the suffering of galley slaves during this tumultuous period.

Jean Marteilhe's autobiographical account of his experiences as a Protestant in France during the late 17th and early 18th centuries offers a rare glimpse into the religious persecution and struggles of the time. With vivid detail and a compelling voice, Marteilhe's story is a captivating read.

The narrative recounts the life of a French Protestant who faced severe persecution for his faith, ultimately being condemned to the galleys. This autobiography provides a personal and historical perspective on religious intolerance in 19th-century France, highlighting the struggles and resilience of individuals who stood firm in their beliefs despite harsh consequences. The reprint preserves the integrity of the original 1864 edition, offering readers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in religious history.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It reflects a commitment to cultural preservation and accessibility, ensuring that classic literature remains available in modern, high-quality editions that honor the original text.

The autobiography offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a French Protestant, reflecting on personal experiences and faith. Translated from French, it preserves the essence of the original 1866 edition. Accompanied by a preface from H. Paumier, the book provides historical context and insights, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in religious narratives and the cultural landscape of 19th-century France.