The Protestant Reformation Movement

“The protestant reformation was a political and social movement in Europe due to the fact that it affected both parties. It affected the social aspect of Europe due to the churches abuse of its powers and people realizing what it has done. One example from Document 2 is “ It is mere human talk to preach that the soul flies out [of purgatory] immediately the money clinks in the collection-box”. People were beginning to realize all of these “ holy” acts were a scam the people started to lose faith in the church.

They began questioning the church and its methods of practice. The poor most of all became enraged with the church “In your government you do nothing but flay and rob your subjects in order that you may lead a life of splendor and pride, until the poor common folk can bear it no longer”. The poor believed all this would actually save their souls as they wanted any hope they could get. When the time of renaissance came around the poor began to see these fallacies and rise up. They began to raid churches and ministries to steal back what was stolen from them, “ they are starting a rebellion, and violently robbing and plundering monasteries and castles which are not theirs”. The largest percent of society is poor so the social movement affected a large portion of the population making it a very large uprising in social standards.

The protestant reformation also affected the political aspect of Europe by masses of people revolting against political leaders as well as governments themselves prosecuting rebels. One of those prosecuted was John Wycliffe , “ has fallen into such a detestable madness that he does not hesitate to dogmatize and publicly preach, or rather vomit forth from the recesses of his breast, certain propositions and conclusions which are erroneous and false”. The church called these men crazy and mad for their ideas. The church was losing its grip on central Europe, “ For rebellion is not simple murder, but is like a great fire, which attacks and lays waste a whole land…. Therefore, let everyone who can, smite, slay and stain, secretly or openly, remembering that nothing can be more pod”. The church’s popularity was at an all time low. Martin luther was even called to court but did not show as he refused to listen to the churches voice. Document 8 states,” “”I cannot submit my faith either to the Pope or to the Councils, because it is clear as day they have frequently erred and contradicted each other. Unless therefore, I am convinced by the testimony of Scripture…I cannot and will not retract…Here I stand, I can do no other. So help my God, Amen”.”

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