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Module Forum: Germany in the Age of the Reformation (HI242) Module conclusions

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  1. By replying to this thread, please post a c. 100 word assessment of one or more of the following questions: Was the Reformation inevitable? What were the core messages? How did Church and Empire change in the 16th century? Could the Reformation be termed a 'success'? Did it sow the seeds of religious tolerance? How do historians try to make sense of the events and processes of the sixteenth century?

  2. The Reformation was of supreme importance to the foundation of modern Europe. Taking place in a society that was profoundly impacted religion, Luther’s theology had substantial impacts, in particular, his motto of ‘Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide and Sola Gratia’ had an unprecedented success in encapsulating the message of reform. ‘Sola Scriptura’ was an existential threat to the authority of the Roman Catholic Church, resulting in a large portion of Europe breaking with Rome. In addition to its theological impacts, The Reformation was fundamental to the growth of the printing press in Europe, had major effects on the economy and precipitated the downfall of a number of European monarchs.