Causes of the Reformation Flashcards
(13 cards)
What criticisms did many English people have of the Catholic Church before the Reformation?
Corruption, greed, and abuse of power in the Church; pluralism, simony, and non-residence were common complaints, along with the wealth and worldliness of the clergy.
What was the role of Martin Luther in inspiring criticism of the Catholic Church?
Martin Luther?s 95 Theses (1517) criticised indulgences and promoted salvation by faith alone, inspiring reformers across Europe.
How did ideas from the European Reformation influence religious thinking in England?
European Reformation ideas spread through printing presses, merchants, and scholars, leading some English people to question Catholic teachings and Church authority.
What was anti-clericalism, and why was it significant in early 16th-century England?
Anti-clericalism was hostility towards clergy abuse and privileges, seen in public criticism and legal challenges against the Church.
How did the corruption and wealth of the Church contribute to calls for reform?
The Church?s land ownership, vast wealth, and political influence made it a target for criticism, especially given accusations of moral failing.
Why did Henry VIII want an annulment from Catherine of Aragon?
Henry wanted a male heir to secure the Tudor dynasty; Catherine had failed to provide one, and Henry sought an annulment the Pope refused to grant.
How did Henry?s desire for a male heir contribute to the English Reformation?
Without a son, Henry feared dynastic instability and civil war; this personal issue led him to break with Rome to control annulment laws.
What role did Thomas Cromwell and Thomas Cranmer play in helping Henry break from Rome?
Cromwell and Cranmer were key reformers who helped engineer the legal and theological basis for Henry?s break with Rome.
Why was control of the Church important to Henry VIII politically?
Controlling the Church would increase Henry?s power and independence, allowing him to rule without Papal interference.
How did the concept of the ?Divine Right of Kings? justify the Royal Supremacy?
The idea that monarchs were appointed by God gave Henry justification to replace the Pope as head of the Church in England.
Why was the wealth of the Church attractive to Henry VIII?
The Church was one of the wealthiest institutions in England; Henry could gain financially by seizing its income and property.
How did Henry benefit financially from the break with Rome?
By breaking with Rome, Henry no longer paid taxes like Peter?s Pence to the Pope and gained control over ecclesiastical revenue.
What role did taxation and Church payments to the Pope play in building resentment?
Many resented the Church?s wealth and taxes; the economic burden on the laity contributed to support for reform.
