A Candid History of the Jesuits

"A Candid History of the Jesuits" by Joseph McCabe is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This book presents a thorough examination of the Society of Jesus, exploring both its celebrated contributions and the controversies surrounding it throughout history." The author aims to provide an unbiased perspective on the Jesuit order, presenting both the admiration and enmity it has garnered over the centuries. "At the start of the book, McCabe sets the stage for a detailed analysis of the Jesuits by introducing their founder, Iñigo of Loyola (later known as Ignatius)." He describes Ignatius's transformation from a soldier with shattered ambitions to a fervent devotee of Christ, following a significant injury that changed the course of his life. The chapter elaborates on Ignatius's initial spiritual journey, marked by intense self-reflection and commitment, leading him to envision the formation of a society dedicated to serving the Church and combating Protestantism. Through this narrative, McCabe hints at the layered complexity of the Jesuit order's origins and the intertwined issues of faith, ambition, and societal influence that will be further explored in the ensuing chapters.