Religion and society; the Jesuits, Inquisition and relations with the Papacy
Philip II used religion to hold Spanish society together and project royal power. He worked with the Jesuits and the Inquisition, but sometimes clashed with the Pope over who held real authority.
Real World
Philip's tension with Pope Pius V over jurisdiction mirrors the recurring friction between the Vatican and Catholic-majority states today, where governments insist national law takes precedence over Church authority.
Exam Focus
Avoid treating Philip as simply 'defender of the faith' — show how religious policy also served political control; this complexity is what earns Level 4 marks.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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