キリスト教世界の制度改革を目指し、宗教改革を率いたマルティン・ルター（1483-1546年）。プロテスタント諸派に分離するきっかけを作った歴史上重要な神学者です。ルターを近代的な英雄として持ち上げるのではなく、その時代背景や擁護者、ルターの改革計画に反発した敵対者らに焦点を当てることで、ルターの生涯と功績をこれまでにない視点で紹介します。
   

• Presents an overview of Luther's life, his writings, his world, and his legacy
• Dispels some myths about Luther without destroying the elusiveness of character that keeps this historical figure fascinating
• Discusses Luther's anti-Judaism and its place in Nazi propaganda
• Includes chapters on his family and the political and cultural influences around him

This introduction presents Martin Luther as historians now see him. Instead of singling him out as a modern hero, the book emphasizes the context in which Luther worked, the colleagues who supported him, and the opponents who adamantly opposed his agenda for change. 

Scott H. Hendrix explains the religious reformation and Luther's importance, without ignoring the political and cultural forces that led the reformation down paths Luther could neither foresee nor influence. This Very Short Introduction pays tribute to Luther's genius, but also recognizes the self-righteous attitude that alienated contemporaries, offering a unique explanation for that behaviour.
 
 
Reading Guide