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Jean Gerson

Type Figure Region France Time 1363–1429 Also known as Gerson

Jean Gerson (1363–1429) was a French theologian, chancellor of the University of Paris, and a core thinker of the conciliar movement in the Church.

Timeline

  1. 1363–1395Paris · Île-de-FranceGerson studied at the University of Paris under Pierre d'Ailly, received his doctorate in theology in 1388, and became renowned for his works on moral theology, mysticism, and pastoral care, gradually emerging as an intellectual leader of the reformist wing of the French Church.
  2. 1395–1409Paris · Île-de-FranceAfter becoming chancellor in 1395, Gerson shifted from the moderate camp to support the conciliar path. In 1404 at Tarascon he preached to Benedict XIII, emphasizing that the pope must submit to the welfare of the Church as a whole. Between 1401 and 1410 he wrote works such as On the Unity of the Church, providing legal grounds for the Council of Pisa in 1409; although he did not attend in person, his thought deeply influenced the council's resolutions.
  3. 1414–1429Constance · Baden-WürttembergHe went to the Council of Constance in 1414, jointly leading the reformist faction with d'Ailly, pushing for the deposition of the antipopes and the eventual election of Martin V. During the council he supported the condemnation of Jan Hus. After 1418, blocked by Burgundian influence from returning to France, he went into exile in Germany; after 1419 he retired to Lyon, continuing to write until his death in 1429.

Sources