Sixteenth-century Reformation Europe was a tumultuous time during which
many defining ideas of the modern era were formulated. The technological
advancement augured by the Gutenberg press allowed the unprecedented
circulation of ideas among a growing legion of literate Europeans.
The writings of radical reformer Martin Luther were perhaps most
influential of all. His opposition to the universal Roman Catholic
Church fundamentally challenged the elites and their institutions. Along
the way, Luther was opposed by the Church, the political powers of the
day, and competing religious ideologies. Ink Against the Devil
distills the major impulses from these debates that continue to resonate
to this day.
This book will appeal to both lay and professional scholars of the
Reformation and its major players with prose that is accessible and free
of jargon. Loewen directly addresses the debates between Luther and his
many foes, including Humanists like Erasmus and the sectarian opponents
found among contemporary Jews, Muslims, and Christians. Of particular
interest will be a focus on anti-semitism throughout Luther's published
writings and sermons. There may be no other examples of this book's
scope in such a natural, narrative presentation.