Born in 1483, Martin Luther was a Catholic priest, monk, and professor of theology, as well as the prime figure in the 16th century Protestant Reformation. Although there is no reason to suspect that he intended to separate from the Roman Catholic Church, he was excommunicated by Pope Leo X at the Diet of Worms, when he refused to retract his writings disputing the claim that indulgences could purchase freedom from God's punishment for sin. His translation of of the Bible from the Latin to the vernacular made the Bible more accessible to regular Christians, and his teachings influenced the writing of an English translation, the King James Bible, as well as the development of the Lutheran Church, of which he was not a member.
Recommended Resources
Martin Luther and his role in the history of the Bible are put forward, with links to places where his works and other publications about him may be purchased, including framed pages from ancient original Bibles.
http://www.for-martin-luther.com/
Literature Network: Martin Luther
A biography an an overview of Martin Luther, the German reformer who challenged the Catholic Church, is offered, including trivia questions and other resources.
http://www.online-literature.com/martin-luther/
The Public Broadcasting Service tells the story of the Protestant revolutionary who challenged the Catholic Church in film. An overview of Luther and some of the people around him is given, including the scenes information, classroom resources, and a shopping area where the DVD may be purchased.
http://www.pbs.org/empires/martinluther/
The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy offers a biography of the German reformer, an overview of his theology, the relationship of his works to philosophy, references and further reading suggestions.
http://www.iep.utm.edu/luther/
Martin Luther and the 95 Theses
The History Channel presents a history of Martin Luther, including his early life, time in the monastery, and the questions that he had about Catholic teachings, as well as the 95 theses that he wrote, disputing Catholic dogma, particularly as it pertained to the selling of indulgences.
http://www.history.com/topics/martin-luther-and-the-95-theses
Martin Luther, German Reformer
From the Christian Classics Ethereal Library, at Calvin College, a summary of the works of Martin Luther are presented, including a biographical sketch, quotes, and his publications and influences, as well as books written about him.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/luther/
