How did the Roman Catholic Church respond to the challenges of the Protestant Reformation to redefine its institutional identity and spiritual authority? Michael A. Mullett, a scholar of early modern European history, examines the multifaceted internal renewal of the Catholic Church during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The text analyzes the interplay between theological reform, the Council of Trent, and the emergence of new religious orders to demonstrate how the Church consolidated its power and influence in a changing European landscape.

Scholars and students of religious history frequently cite this work as a balanced and accessible overview of the Catholic Reformation. The text is noted for its clear synthesis of complex theological and political developments, making it a standard reference for those seeking to understand the institutional evolution of the Church during this era.