The eclectic reformation : vernacular evangelical pamphlet literature in the Dutch speaking Low Countries, 1520-1565

Abstract

The Reformation in the Netherlands was opposed by the secular and ecclesiastical authorities for nigh on fifty years. As a result it took on a decidely eclectic nature. The works of Luther, Calvin and Bullinger, together with those of a host of lesser-known reformers (including Urbanus Regius, Franc cois Lambert, Johannes Bugenhagen, Hans Sachs, Caspar Huberinus and Matthias Bynwalth) were all translated into Dutch between 1520 and 1565. In addition, numerous indigenous reformers such as Johannes Anastasius Veluanus, Cornelis Cooltuyn, `Niclaes Peeters' and Willem Gnapheus were active propagandists for the evangelical cause. The aim of the thesis is to examine the various influences at work within the Dutch Reformation in this period. The `terminus a quo' is 1520 because it was at this time that Luther's writings first appeared in the Netherlands. The `terminus ad quem' is 1565 because after this date the Dutch Reformation became politicized by the Revolt. Leaving aside the Anabaptists and the Spiritualists (recipients of numerous separate studies), the thesis concentrates particularly on the writings of the lesser known and indigenous reformers named above. It will be suggested that the Reformation in the Netherlands was a good deal more dependent upon the German and Swiss Reformations than has hitherto been acknowledged. This calls into question a long-standing historiographical tradition which placed much stress on the role of Erasmus and various `forerunners' and emphasized the unique theological flavour of the Dutch Reformation. (D73964/87)

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