Cospean (or Cospeau), Philippe De
Cospean (or Cospeau), Philippe De a Flemish theologian, was born in Hainault in 1568. He first studied under Justus Lipsius, and then went to Paris. His poverty and his desire for knowledge were so great that, in order to complete his studies, he accepted the position of valet to the abbot of Espernon, afterwards cardinal de la Valette. In 1604 Cospean received the degree of doctor from the Sorbonne, was appointed bishop of Aire in 1607, and promoted to the bishopric of Nantes, March 17, 1622. He had at his accession a very lively dispute with his chapter, relative to the emoluments during the vacancy. Cospean declared himself favorable to the Oratorians in their quarrel with the Carmelites. He was charged, in 1627, by cardinal Richelieu, with preparing Francis of Montmorency for death. In 1636 he was transferred to the bishopric of Lisieux. He died at the chateau of Loges, near Lisieux, in 1646, leaving, Oraison Funebre, aux Obseques de Henri le Grand (Paris, 1610): — Remontrance du Clerge de France au Roi: — Pro Patre Berullio Epistola Apologetica (Paris, 1622). See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.; Biog. Universelle, s.v.
