Illustration of the University of Wittenberg

Illustration of the University of Wittenberg

This is an illustration of a building at the University of Wittenberg, which was founded in 1502 by Frederick the Wise, a powerful elector in the Holy Roman Empire (“Wittenberg”). Like many universities, it was created from a pre-existing monastery. The University of Wittenberg in particular helps demonstrate the impact of education on Early Modern Europe. It was made famous by one of its teachers, Martin Luther, who had studied briefly at the university only to return a few years later (Roper 63). Luther was an educated man, familiar with religious dogma from his time as a monk but well-read from his studies outside the monastery. He was awarded a doctorate in October 1512, which Lyndal Roper writes gave Luther “a public persona” and allowed him to integrate with the intellectuals in Wittenberg (72). A few centuries ago, this could never have happened—Luther would not have a doctorate, would not have as extensive an education, and there would be no universities for him to study or teach at. The opportunity to interact with his intellectual peers and further cement his religious philosophy doubtlessly facilitated Luther’s ability to argue and support his later religious claims. This position also gave him security, access to an Elector, and a base of operations. The university became a site where young men could come to learn from Luther and his colleagues, and to then go out into the world and spread those ideas further. Without the power that education offered, the Protestant Reformation would have looked very different.

Unknown

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wittenberg_Universit%C3%A4t_18xx.jpg

19th Century

Benjamin Wightman