Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Martin Luther was a German theologian, priest, and key figure in the Protestant Reformation. He is best known for his Ninety-Five Theses, which challenged certain practices of the Catholic Church and sparked widespread debate.
In Catholic theology, indulgences were certificates sold by the Church that promised remission of punishment for sins committed. Martin Luther strongly criticized this practice as he believed it undermined true repentance.
Wittenberg: The city in Germany where Martin Luther lived and taught at Wittenberg University. It became a center for theological discussions during the Reformation.
Ninety-Five Theses: This refers to Luther's list of arguments against various practices of the Catholic Church that he posted on October 31, 1517. It served as a catalyst for debates about religious reform throughout Europe.