The Reformation for Dummies
Reformation Scholar Extraordinaire
Navigating the events and happenings around the Reformation can be a complex task – but alas – Roland Bainton to the rescue! Dr. Bainton went to be with the Lord several decades ago, but he left behind a treasure-trove of Reformation resources for us 21st century sojourners.
Here are two of his books that are straightforward, easy reads that will get you up to speed on both the general events of the Reformation as well as the man himself, Martin Luther:
Brand Luther
I’m enjoying this 2016 book, which is an entertaining and readable biography. The effect of the printing press on Luther and the Reformation has always been recognized. The author explores this history but likewise considers the effect of Luther on printing and publishing.
Andrew Pettegree is a professor of modern history at the University of St. Andrews. More info here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/311493/brand-luther-by-andrew-pettegree/9780399563232/
Mike
“Pettegree illustrates Luther’s great gifts not simply as a theologian, but as a communicator, indeed, as the world’s first mass-media figure, its first brand. He recognized in printing the power of pamphlets, written in the colloquial German of everyday people, to win the battle of ideas.
About Brand Luther, Penguin Random House
The Idea
I recommend the video “Martin Luther: The Idea that Changed the World.” It should still be available on Netflix. I like that all the words in the video that are spoken by Luther are attributable to him. The film is narrated by Hugh Bonneville (“Downton Abbey”) and stars Padraic Delany (“The Tudors,” “The Man Who Knew Infinity”).
Trailers and other info here: http://www.pbs.org/program/Martin-Luther-idea-changed-world/
Mike