The Inquisition

As Monty Python so humorously reminded us: "Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition." For those with vague remembrances of times (the Middle Ages), places (Spain), people (Torquemada) and terms (auto-da-fé) related to the Inquisition, this comprehensive overview offers a far more complex portrait of a movement that was initiated to save souls but ended in widespread misery. Instituted by the Roman Catholic Church for the apprehension and trial of suspected heretics, the Inquisition spread throughout Europe before reaching its zenith in 15th century Spain under the malignant direction of "The Black Legend" Torquemada, who sent thousands to the stake. Although formally religious, the Inquisition not only served as a political weapon for Philip the Fair of France and Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, but--ironically--ushered in the birth of legal reforms such as the right to an attorney and the dispensation of free legal advice to indigents. While the 17th and 18th centuries saw a steady decline of the practice, Inquisition was not actually outlawed until the early 19th century (although the point is made here that the Inquisition has recurred in different forms in modern times--the McCarthy communist witch hunts, Hitler's final solution, etc.). Now that scholars have access to long-sealed church archives, many of the misconceptions about the methods of the Inquisition have been clarified. Combining low-key, well-executed re-enactments, good graphics, and insightful interviews, this fine program offers a balanced and absorbing account of a notorious religious institution. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)