The Reformation: A Very Short Introduction - Very Short Introductions (Paperback)

Peter Marshall (author)

£7.99

Paperback 168 Pages / Published: 22/10/2009

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Synopsis

The Reformation transformed Europe, and left an indelible mark on the modern world. It began as an argument about what Christians needed to do to be saved, but rapidly engulfed society in a series of fundamental changes. This Very Short Introduction provides a lively and up-to-date guide to the process. It explains doctrinal debates in a clear and non-technical way, but is equally concerned to demonstrate the effects the Reformation had on politics, society, art, and minorities. Peter Marshall argues that the Reformation was not a solely European phenomenon, but that varieties of faith exported from Europe transformed Christianity into a truly world religion. The complex legacy of the Reformation is also assessed; its religious fervour produced remarkable stories of sanctity and heroism, and some extraordinary artistic achievements, but violence, holy war, and martyrdom were equally its products. A paradox of the Reformation - that it intensified intolerance while establishing pluralism - is one we still wrestle with today. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 9780199231317
Number of pages: 168
Weight: 146 g
Dimensions: 174 x 112 x 11 mm

MEDIA REVIEWS

Besser kann man es nicht machen [it couldn't be done better] * Peter Blickle, Historische Zeitschrift *
It has hardly ever been told better * Alec Ryrie, English Historical Review *
This is history as it should be written: meticulous, provocative and intelligent. By studying the past for its own sake, and on its own terms, it also illuminates the present and the future * William Whyte, Church Times *