REFORMATION IDEAS AND THE PHASES OF RELIGIOUS CHANGES 1536-47

PHASES OF RELIGIOUS CHANGE (Change , Continuity)

1536-39 swing towards Protestantism/more reformed religion

1539-40 return to more traditional/catholic practices

1541-43 religious confusion

1544-47 triumph of reform - Protestant

CALVINISM (would be worrisome)

Beliefs:

• John Calvin - Protestant reformer from Switzerland

• Services were plain and simple, focused on scripture and faith

Impact in England:

• limited influence during H’s reign as it was seen as too extreme Protestantism - influence more apparent during Edward VI and Eliz’ reign.

HUMANISM (would be encouraged)

Beliefs:

• European movement closely associated with renaissance - Humanists encouraged rediscovery of Latin/greek texts, which tended to challenge catholic beliefs.

• Most reformers had humanist influences

Impact in England:

• John Colet - significant English humanist (encouraged reform of education practices to include more laity and study of broader range of subjects)

• Thomas More - leading English humanist who became H’s principal minister 1529-32

ERASMIANISM (would be cautioned)

Beliefs:

• Mix of humanism and reform change

• Followers of Erasmus. Erasmus sought to improve Christianity through an emphasis on education and the rejection of some of Church’s traditional ceremonies.