The Stripping of the Altars by Eamon Duffy

"The Stripping of the Altars" provides an in-depth look into the religious practices and beliefs of the English people before, during, and after the Protestant Reformation. The book challenges the traditional narrative of a corrupt Catholic Church being replaced by a more pure Protestantism, instead arguing that Catholicism was a vibrant and beloved part of English life. The author uses a wealth of historical evidence to show that the Reformation was a violent rupture rather than a smooth transition, resulting in a profound loss for the people who were forcibly separated from the rituals and traditions that had structured their spiritual lives for generations.

The 7289th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 69

Since this book was first published in 1992, there is a penalty of 28.8%. The age adjusted score is 49.13.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.