Richard Rex Boeken

A major new account of the most intensely creative years of Luther's careerThe Making of Martin Luther takes a provocative look at the intellectual emergence of one of the most original and influential minds of the sixteenth century. Richard Rex traces how, in a concentrated burst of creative energy in the few years surrounding his excommunication by Pope Leo X in 1521, this lecturer at an obscure German university developed a startling new interpretation of the Christian faith that brought to an end the dominance of the Catholic Church in Europe. Luther's personal psychology and cultural context played their parts in the whirlwind of change he unleashed. But for the man himself, it was always about the ideas, the truth, and the Gospel. Focusing on the most intensely important years of Luther's career, Rex teases out the threads of his often paradoxical and counterintuitive ideas from the tangled thickets of his writings, explaining their significance, their interconnections, and the astonishing appeal they so rapidly developed. Yet Rex also sets these ideas firmly in the context of Luther's personal life, the cultural landscape that shaped him, and the traditions of medieval Catholic thought from which his ideas burst forth. Lucidly argued and elegantly written, The Making of Martin Luther is a splendid work of intellectual history that renders Luther's earthshaking yet sometimes challenging ideas accessible to a new generation of readers

The best introduction to England A|s most important dynasty A| DAVID STARKEY

A remarkable piece of writing that will have an enduring influence. With shrewd and canny insights, powerful prose, and wit, Richard Rex offers a persuasive and provocative tour through the early years of the Reformation.-- Bruce Gordon, author of John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion: A Biography

Focusing on the Tudor dynasty, this book offers a fresh and accessible perspective on a pivotal era in British history, emphasizing its religious and political dynamics. The author's expertise provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and influences that shaped the period, making it an informative resource for those interested in the Tudors' lasting impact.

The book offers a detailed examination of the Lady Margaret's Professorship of Divinity at Cambridge, exploring its historical significance and impact on theological education. It delves into the origins of the professorship, key figures associated with it, and its evolution over time. Through a blend of historical analysis and biographical sketches, the narrative highlights the role of this position in shaping religious thought and academic discourse within the university and beyond.

Focusing on Bishop John Fisher's intellectual journey, the book explores his role as the Bishop of Rochester during the tumultuous period of Henry VIII's Reformation. It highlights Fisher's significant contributions to theological discourse, particularly his influential writings that challenged Martin Luther's ideas. The narrative delves into Fisher's steadfastness in faith and the consequences he faced for his beliefs, ultimately portraying him as a pivotal figure in the religious debates of the early sixteenth century.