Natallia Sliž. The Attitude towards Religion and Religious Practices of Hrodna Townspeople (16th–17th Centuries)

In the 16th and 17th centuries, religion played a vital role in society and was an essential part of everyday life. Studies of the religious situation in Hrodna have typically focused on the histories of temples, monasteries, religious orders, and personal documents. However, other aspects have been overlooked, such as religious practices within craft workshops, foundation records left by townspeople, funeral sermons dedicated to them, their transition into religious life, conflicts between townspeople and the clergy, and traces of paganism within the urban community. The source base for this article includes city and guild privileges, wills, court cases, and religious texts.

Religion accompanied townspeople from birth until death, and behaviour in this sphere was documented in various records. The financial aspect of religious life was also of considerable importance. In the 17th century, the Catholic faith was dominant in the city. While other Christian denominations were present, they did not play a significant role. The religious behaviours and practices of the townspeople were not uniform; they were shaped by religious affiliation, social status, profession, and gender.