A Short History of the Western Liturgy

Dr. Klauser presents a classical interpretation of the changes and developments in the liturgy from the time of Christ to Vatican Council II. The work is divided into four periods which have become standard designations: from the Ascension of Jesus to Gregory the Great, "creative beginnings," (30-590); from Gregory the Great to Gregory VII, "expansion under Franco-German preeminence," (590-1073); from Gregory VII to the Council of Trent, "luxuriant growth," (1073-1545); and from Trent to Vatican II, "unification and regulation," (1545-1963). Each period is introduced with a concise summary followed by Dr. Klauser's discussion. Four appendices are included and the translator has added a page of citations to supplement the 57-page bibliography. Of particular interest to the reader, Dr. Klauser does not hesitate to point out misdirections the Church has taken such as development of the cult of the sacrament playing out "the misuse of the mass as a devotional exercise in front of the monstrance" (p.139). In another example he discusses the shocking revisions to the liturgy brought about by Vatican II (p.153-159). In all, an easy (although scholarly) and informing read, laced with history and enlightening asides.