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Failed Book Burning In Mainz
- On November 28, 1520, townspeople in Mainz attempted to publicly burn Martin Luther's books but the torch was quenched and the books survived that day.
- Two weeks earlier a massive bonfire of his books occurred in Cologne, showing polarized and violent reactions to his writings.
Mock Recantation Turns Defiant
- Luther theatrically 'recants' and then intensifies his attacks, calling the condemned articles 'the articles of antichrist.'
- His bold public writing escalates enraged opponents and fuels further condemnations.
Luther's Private Vulnerability
- Privately Luther confesses to a friend that he feels vulnerable and nearly overwhelmed by despair despite public boldness.
- He insists he has not sought honor or wealth and is willing to suffer death for his convictions.