95

An itinerary is proposed to understand the reception of Petrus Ramus in Catholic thought, as it is a totally unexplored topic: 1) 1545-1585 (a stage of understanding and absorption of Ramus’ ideas), 2) 1585-1640 (an epoch of apologetic conflict, confrontation and eclecticism), 3) 1640-1670 (a period of study and a detailed discussion of scholastic authors and rationalists), and 4) after 1670 (a period of suspension and progressive dissolution of interest in the works of Ramus). Studied with particular attention is the reception of Ramus in the works of Lalemandet, Mersenne, Sorel, Gassendi and Caramuel, as well as the influence of Ramus on the Jesuits. We conclude that his reception was highly varied. The most Aristotelian authors (Mas, Raynaud...) were absolutely opposed to La Ramée, while others (Lalemandet, Caramuel) had a more eclectic position, others (Mersenne, Gassendi) esteemed his work and some others (Sorel) formulated a highly laudatory judgment.