Cardinal Henry Edward Manning (1808-92) was a major figure of the nineteenth- century Church. This book follows his intellectual formation and development from his early years and Anglican ministry, through his conversion to Catholicism to his subsequent role at the First Vatican Council. This is an area of research that has hitherto attracted little attention, a neglect which is surprising given the significant role that Manning played in many of the most important ecclesiastical events of his time. As well as setting Manning's ideas against their historical background, the events in which he was involved and those which influenced his thought or upon which he exerted his influence, James Pereiro examines the deep personal crisis, both ideological and emotional, that he experienced. His study is based on a thorough research into Manning's published works and manuscript sources, many of them previously unused.

"A fine intellectual biography of Manning." Eamon Duffy, The Tablet

"This volume is a witness to a greatness discerned and understood." Sheridan Gilley, Church Times

"This is an exceptional study of an exceptional man." John R. Griffin, Church History

"Dr Pereiro has made a significant contribution to the history of the development of ideas and to the greater understanding of nineteenth-century Catholicism." V.Alan McClelland, The Catholic Historical Review

"Access to the sources has enabled Fr James Pereiro to produce a very perceptive and illuminating study." David Newsome, The Tablet

"Although Manning left us no Apologia pro vita sua of his religious opinions, Pereiro's book comes close to one." Geoffrey Rowell, The Times Literary Supplement

James Pereiro is Chaplain of Grandpont House, Oxford.