Melanchthon
The Enigma of the Reformation
Published on 11. May 2006
Book
Paperback/Softback
176 pages
978-0-227-17244-5 (ISBN)
Description
The impact of Philip Melanchthon upon Lutheranism cannot be underestimated. Yet Melanchthon is often overlooked and he remains one of the most enigmatic figures of the Reformation. It is within Dr. Robert Stupperich's incisive portrayal of a man, acclaimed as 'the preceptor of Germany' in his lifetime, that the reader can uncover the secrets of a layman who directly influenced Luther. Melanchthon struggled with contemporary powers, yet his persistence and drive resulted in him becoming the chief architect of Germany's school system and also a chief negotiator between statesmen and theologians. Despite this success, almost no-one wholly accepted Melanchthon's religious views. Yet, few could have managed without the advances which Melanchthon precipitated in theology, education, natural science and even public affairs. This study of impressively broad scope begins by addressing the historical background which shaped Melanchthon's early life. The development of Melanchthon's inner humanist is investigated through an assessment of his childhood and adolescence.
The second chapter examines the path which Melanchthon carved for himself in theology, where it is revealed how Melanchthon became a defender of Luther. Further chapters trace his life to its end, to allow the reader to see the full impact of a life which encourages the Reformation to be viewed in a new focus and depth.
The second chapter examines the path which Melanchthon carved for himself in theology, where it is revealed how Melanchthon became a defender of Luther. Further chapters trace his life to its end, to allow the reader to see the full impact of a life which encourages the Reformation to be viewed in a new focus and depth.
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Target group
College/higher education
Professional and scholarly
Dimensions
Height: 216 mm
Width: 140 mm
Weight
207 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-227-17244-5 (9780227172445)
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Schweitzer Classification
Person
Robert Stupperich was Professor of Church History at the University of Munster until his death in 2003. He was recognised as an international expert on the history of the Reformation
Content
Introduction: Cultural and Religious Life Before the Reformation; The Development of the Humanist; Homeland Family and School; Course of Studies in Heidelberg and Tubingen; The Way into Theology; Beginning in Wittenberg; The Leipzig Debate and Its Consequences; The Defender of Luther; Struggle with the Powers of the Day; Results of His Theological Work; Against Fanatics and Baptists; Labors for the Church and School; Transition to New Tasks; The Promotion of Studies and the Church Visitation; On the Political Stage; Speyer and Marburg 1529; The Augsburg Confession and Selfassertion; Paths and Efforts of His Own; Union Efforts; Conciliation Attempts and Broad Contacts; The Church Council and the Religious Colloquies; The War the Interim and the Religious Peace; The Last Battles; Dissension in His Own Camp; Conference and Synod; His Final Testimony and His Last Days; Postscript: A Word About Melanchthon Research; Selected Bibliography in English; Index.