In the generation that followed Martin Luther's protest the evangelical movement in Europe attracted very different levels of support in different parts of the continent. Whereas in eastern and central Europe the new movement brought a swift transformation of the religious and political landscape, progress elsewhere was more halting: in the Mediterranean lands and western Europe initial enthusiasm for reform failed to bring about the wholesale renovation of society for which evangelicals had hoped. These fascinating contrasts are the main focus of this volume of specially commissioned essays, each of which charts the progress of reform in one country or region of Europe. Written in each case by a leading specialist in the field, they make available in English for the first time an up-to-date survey based on primary research and a thorough grasp of the vernacular literature. For both scholars and students they will be an invaluable guide to recent debates and literature on the success or failure of the first generation of reform.
Reviews
'This book of specially commissioned essays by leading scholars fills a gap by showing the character and progress of the Reformation in Europe in the generation that followed the transformation of Germany by Luther's teaching ... The Early Reformation in Europe will certainly interest scholars, but there is a great deal here for the non-specific student too. Lecturers and students concerned with Reformation Studies or European Studies modules within BA or BEd degrees will find these essays a new resource for their present work, and something which may well affect the design and content of future revision of their courses.' H. J. Patterson, NATFHE Journal
