The Reformation transformed Europe & left an indelible mark on the modern world It began as an argument about what Christians needed to do to be saved but rapidly engulfed society in a series of fundamental changes This Very Short Introduction provides a lively & up-to-date guide to the process It explains doctrinal debates in a clear & non-technical way but is equally concerned to demonstrate the effects the Reformation had on politics society art & minorities Peter Marshall argues that the Reformation was not a solely European phenomenon but that varieties of faith exported from Europe transformed Christianity into a truly world religion The complex legacy of the Reformation is also assessed; its religious fervour produced remarkable stories of sanctity & heroism & some extraordinary artistic achievements but violence holy war & martyrdom were equally its products A paradox of the Reformation
- that it intensified intolerance while establishing pluralism
- is one we still wrestle with today ABOUT THE SERIES The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable