Luther's Decline in influence: how can we explain it?

Question 1

How did the reforming princes and city authorities cause a decline in L influence?

Answer 1

Germany’s reforming princes and city authorities wanted to take control of religious change- impact of peasants revolt (revolution from below). Wanted religion securely controlled. V. IMPORTANT

Question 2

How did the Edict of Worms 1521 cause a decline?

Answer 2

It outlawed Luther- unable to travel or meet the Emperor, or influence C authorities to convert.

Question 3

Who were the other figures who stepped in to be the public face of L?

Answer 3

Philip of Melachthon and John Bugenhagan- both able and experienced.

Question 4

Where did Luther lose huge popular support?

Answer 4

His reaction to the Peasant’s Revolt.

Question 5

How does Luther’s lack of compromising lose him influence and support?

Answer 5

The division between Luther and the Zwinglians over Eucharist and arguments with Erasmus over philosophical ideas such as free will. NOT A COMPROMISER AND NOT BACK DOWN. Would not make a happy middle ground.

Question 6

What happened to Luther as he grew older?

Answer 6

Illness and old age made him difficult, bad tempered and difficult to talk to and negotiate with.

Question 7

When did he damage his reputation?

Answer 7

Through the scandal of Philip of Hesse bigamous marriage.

Question 8

Did Luther help himself?

Answer 8

Nope.

Question 9

Are the factors long-term or short-term?

Answer 9

Both, a mix of LT and ST trigger events (specific).