Conversion of the Heretic 1465

Benozzo Gozzoli created this fresco, Conversion of the Heretic, in the Church of Sant'Agostino in San Gimignano in Italy. The image depicts a heretic being converted to orthodox Christianity. But we must remember that the concept of heresy is always defined by those in power. This fresco, from the early Renaissance, reflects the social and religious structures of its time. Note how its patron was the Catholic Church, an institution which has historically exerted immense social and cultural influence in Italy. The Church’s power at that time was maintained through adherence to its doctrines, so challenging it constituted a threat to social order. The image presents a clear statement in favor of theological orthodoxy. To better understand this artwork, one would need to explore church records and theological texts, and analyze the social context in which the concept of heresy was defined and contested. The historian’s task is to unpack the complex interplay between art, power, and social norms.