History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps

In a surprise twist, some Protestant thinkers embrace the methods of scholasticism, and even find something to admire in the work of Catholic authors like Aquinas.

John Calvin's views on predestination and the limits of human reason.

The Swiss theologian Zwingli launches the Reformation in Switzerland, but clashes with Luther and more radical Protestants.

Faced with massive political upheaval and the rise of the Anabaptists, Luther argues for a socially conservative version of the Reformation.

Luther’s close ally Melanchthon uses his knowledge of ancient philosophy and rhetoric in the service of the Reformation.

Erasmus clashes with Martin Luther over the question whether our wills are free or enslaved to sin.

How radical was Luther? We find out from Lyndal Roper, who also discusses Luther and the Peasants' War, sexuality, anti-semitism, and the visual arts.

Explore the revolutionary transformation brought on by Martin Luther, who reshaped belief systems and challenged the Catholic Church with his 95 theses. Discover his groundbreaking doctrine of justification by faith alone and how it sparked a significant theological evolution. Dive into Luther's complex relationship with tradition and reason, as he prioritized faith over scholasticism while still valuing rational thought. Unpack his legacy, revealing both the controversies and enduring impact of his revolutionary ideas on faith and society.

Trends in Aristotelian philosophy in northern and eastern Europe in the fifteenth century, featuring discussion of the “Wegestreit” and the nominalist theology of Gabriel Biel.

Explore the life of Desiderius Erasmus, a pivotal figure in northern humanism and biblical scholarship. Discover his satirical critique of scholasticism in "The Praise of Folly," emphasizing personal faith over ritual. Delve into his pacifist views, contrasting with the violent struggles of the era, and his calls for moral leadership. Unpack his complex stance during the Reformation as he navigated calls for reform while remaining loyal to the Catholic Church, advocating for unity in Christianity amidst turmoil.