1. In “The Mass,” Eamon Duffy argues that for most people, late medieval spirituality was not individualistic but “corporatist”, and he uses certain aspects of the Mass to make his case. Why does he think that “individualism” does not explain the pre-Reformation religious attitudes and what evidence does he use to make his case? Are you persuaded by his argument and use of evidence? Why or why not?

2. In “The Estate of Marriage” (1522), Martin Luther sets out his understanding of human sexuality and marriage and their proper role in the new Protestant communities of Europe. Based on what you've read and learned in this course, do you think that his ideas represented a departure from existing norms and values? Or did he he reinforce norms and values that were already present?

3. Some historians argue that the Peace of Augsburg (1555) established freedom of conscience as a fundamental human right; others dispute this idea, arguing that the treaty was fundamentally intolerant of religious diversity. What evidence supports these positions? Which argument do think is the stronger one?

1. A recurrent theme in this course has been the relationship between “official” religion and the many strata of ordinary believers. As you know, historians offer conflicting accounts of these relationships: for example, some stress the role of state in imposing reform from above, while others attribute the success of Reformation on its appeal to the strength its appeal to the spiritual, cultural, and/or social needs of ordinary people. Based on what you have read and learned this term, how would you assess the relationship between popular religion and Reformation?

2. In readings, lecture, and discussions, you have encountered two arguments about the various effects that the Reformation is said to have had on women in general and the institution of marriage in particular. We have called these the “emancipation thesis” and the “gender crisis thesis.” Which of these perspectives do you find the more persuasive, and why? Be sure to support your ideas with argument and evidence.

3. Some historians argue that the modern distinction between “church” and “state” emerged from the Reformation. In your estimation, how did the relationship between secular and spiritual authority change as a result of the Reformation? How did the various Protestant denominations differ in their relationship to secular power, and with what consequences?

4. Some historians have said that the sixteenth-century reforms within the Roman Catholic church were merely “reactionary,” no more than a “Counter-Reformation.” Others have argued that they emerged independently of the Protestant revolt against papal authority. Still others suggest that both were manifestations of a single reform movement. What do you think? Why?