The basic assumption of this book is addressing the way in which Calvinist theology affected the literary endeavors of Calvinist writers, not only Agrippa d'Aubign e, but all French Protestant authors of the later sixteenth century. The author argues that Calvinist theology created special problems of conscience because its emphasis on the authority of scripture made believers regard their proper task as exposition and presentation of the truth already revealed, while any effort to create an imaginary world of creative fiction seemed a rejection of the truth and a self-glorification of the author that amounted to rebellion against the authority of God. D'Aubign e represents a clear and conscious rebellion against such constraints; through his career d'Aubign e openly dared to engage in independent literary creation, and to assert his right as a sincerely reformed Christian to do so. In this study, theology and literature come together to illuminate a major problem in the literary history of the French Reformed tradition.