The Catholic Reformation: A Very Short Introduction traces the Catholic Reformation from its beginnings in the first half of the sixteenth century, through the years of unrest in Europe, to its global expansion in the Americas, Asia, and Africa, and its continued influence and legacy into the twentieth century.

As well as spiritual and religious matters, and how they entwined with the political, James E. Kelly covers the full gamut of experience of what is also known as the Counter-Reformation, particularly its deliberately sensory approach in terms of art, architecture, and music. Combining broad overviews and focused examples, Kelly offers a concise, provocative introduction to a global movement.