Axiomata Erasmi Pro Cavsa Martini Lvtheri

Abstract

In the Axiomata pro causa Lutheri, Erasmus summarized the most important points of the argument already advanced in the Acta Academiae Louaniensis and soon to be completed in the Consilium cuiusdam. The Axioms stand midway between these two pamphlets — presenting the case for Luther and against his enemies, without the personal attacks of the former, and suggesting the plan for a court of arbitration, without the definite detail of the latter. They contain no new ideas. For the history of their author, their chief significance lies in the fact that here, in notes not intended for publication, Erasmus committed himself definitely and unequivocally to the programme of the two anonymous pamphlets. For the history of the Reformation in general, however, their significance is based on other grounds. They were written for the guidance of the Elector Frederick the Wise at a crucial moment in the career of Martin Luther. How far was the elector’s course of action influenced by the advice of Erasmus? This question is worth considering if one is to estimate the importance of the Axiomata.