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Martin Luther's 95 Theses - Unit II Reformation

In 1517, Martin Luther, a German monk, published his 95 Theses, challenging the practices of the Catholic Church, particularly the selling of indulgences. This document sparked what is known as the Protestant Reformation, a religious movement that greatly influenced the course of Western history. Below, you will analyze Luther’s 95 Theses using a series of questions designed to help you understand the historical context, Luther’s purpose, and the impact of the document.

Group 1

Thesis 27: "They preach only human doctrines who say that as soon as the money clinks into the money chest, the soul flies out of purgatory."

Thesis 36: "Any truly repentant Christian has a right to full remission of penalty and guilt, even without indulgence letters."

Thesis 43: "Christians are to be taught that he who gives to the poor or lends to the needy does a better work than buying indulgences."

Thesis 62: "The true treasure of the Church is the most holy gospel of the glory and grace of God."

Excerpts from Martin Luther’s 95 Theses (1517)

Question 1a

Short answer

What was occurring in the time period and location at the time of this document?

Question 1b

Short answer

Who did the author expect to be viewing this document? How does that affect the subject matter?

Question 1c

Short answer

Why was the document created? What is the author trying to convince the reader? Is the document trying to inform or persuade?

Question 1d

Short answer

How does the author’s position, personal beliefs, or background (such as gender, education, nationality, or social class) shape the way they present the information in this document? What might they leave out or emphasize because of their viewpoint?

Group 2

Reading Focus Questions

Question 2a

Short answer

What is the central argument or main idea of Martin Luther's 95 Theses?

Question 2b

Short answer

How do Luther’s arguments in The 95 Theses build his main criticism of the Church’s practices, like the selling of indulgences and what real repentance and treasure should be?

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