Protestant Reformation
Definition
The Protestant Reformation was a major 16th century European movement aimed initially at reforming the beliefs and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. Its religious aspects were supplemented by ambitious political rulers who wanted to extend their power and control at the expense of the Church.
Analogy
Imagine if your favorite band suddenly split into several smaller bands because they disagreed on what kind of music they should play. That's similar to how Martin Luther's disagreements with certain teachings led to new branches within Christianity during Protestant Reformation.
Related terms
Martin Luther: A German professor of theology who is considered as one key figure in sparking off Protestant Reformation through his Ninety-Five Theses against indulgences.
Indulgences: In Catholic theology, an indulgence is seen as full or partial remission of temporal punishment due for sins which have already been forgiven.
Council Of Trent: One of Roman Catholicism's most important ecumenical councils, prompted by the Protestant Reformation. It served to define Church doctrine and made sweeping decrees on self-reform.
"Protestant Reformation" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (6)
- Which of the following technological innovations was pivotal in the Protestant Reformation?
- How did the Roman Catholic Church react to the Protestant Reformation?
- The most direct result of the Protestant Reformation was
- Who was the primary instigator of The Protestant Reformation?
- Who was primarily responsible for leading the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century?
- How could history have been different if Martin Luther had not led the Protestant Reformation?
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