Paul Schneider (1701–1739) in Bedrängnis

seine Reise nach Mähren und Gefangenschaft im Zuge der Gegenreformation

Abstract

This article is based primarily on Paul Schneider’s manuscript travelogue, which he dictated to a Moravian Brother. It covers the period from 1731 to 1736 in detail, comprising his journey, imprisonment, release from prison and second journey to Moravia. The inhumane conditions in the dungeons in Kunewald (Kunin), Neutitschein (Nový Jičín) and Brünn (Brno), where Paul was held captive, and the interrogations by judicial authorities and the clergy reflect the way in which non-Catholics (‘heretics’) were treated. Attention is also paid to Zinzendorf ’s unsuccessful attempt to get Paul released. When Paul arrived in Herrnhut against expectations and the Moravian leaders discovered that he had converted to Catholicism in order to save his life and regain his freedom, he was sent back to Moravia into prison to relieve his conscience and undo the damage he had caused to the community’s reputation. However, the Jesuit in Brno to whom Paul had said the Creed denied his request for a revocation letter and told him to leave the country. After his return to Herrnhut, Paul was again accepted into the community, but his lack of perseverance in his faith (until death) was perceived as failure. Paul Schneider died in 1739 in Heerendijk (Netherlands) while on his way to Guinea as a missionary. Given that his health was fragile anyway, the hardships during his imprisonment may well have contributed to his premature death.