1. Religious Observance: Calvinism was the official religion, and religious practices were mandatory. Attendance at church services and regular participation in religious activities, including prayers, sermons, and Bible studies, was expected from all citizens. Missing religious services without valid reasons could result in punishment.
2. Strict Morality: Geneva practiced strict moral codes based on Calvinist teachings. Sumptuary laws regulated clothing, hairstyles, and other aspects of personal appearance to discourage vanity and extravagance. Gambling, dancing, card playing, and other forms of entertainment deemed frivolous or sinful were prohibited.
3. Church Discipline: The consistory, a body of church elders, exercised strict moral discipline. They monitored citizens' behavior, investigated reports of moral offenses, and imposed punishments, such as public confessions, fines, or excommunication.
4. Education: Education was highly valued, and Calvin established schools to provide religious and general education to both boys and girls. The curriculum emphasized the study of theology, classical languages, and practical subjects like mathematics and science.
5. Social Welfare: Geneva implemented a system of social welfare to care for the poor, orphans, and widows. Hospitals, soup kitchens, and other charitable institutions were established to provide assistance and support to those in need.
6. Economic Regulations: Calvin believed that usury (lending money at excessive interest rates) was sinful, and strict regulations were imposed on financial transactions to prevent exploitation. Fair trade practices were encouraged, and monopolies were discouraged.
7. Legal System: The legal system was based on biblical law, and punishments for offenses were often severe, including corporal punishments and even capital punishment for serious crimes.
8. Cultural Life: Cultural expression was limited by the focus on religious devotion. Theater, music, and other forms of entertainment were restricted or discouraged as potential distractions from religious pursuits.
Overall, life in Calvin's Geneva was characterized by strong religious beliefs, a focus on moral conduct, and strict adherence to Calvinist principles, which shaped every aspect of daily life, from religious practices and personal morality to education, social welfare, and the legal system.
