Martin Luther defies Frederick the Wise: A letter from Borna, 1522

A letter penned by Martin Luther during his return from Wartburg Castle to Wittenberg in 1522 offers profound insights into individual freedom and Luther's strategic thinking. Dated March 5, 1522, the document stands out as a world-historical testament to Luther's defiance against Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony. The letter exemplifies artful speech and tactical reasoning, providing a unique perspective on the complexities of early modern European history. This analysis delves into the significance of the letter, highlighting its role in shaping historical narratives around individual autonomy and political defiance.

Schilling, H. (2019). Martin Luther defies Frederick the Wise: A letter from Borna, 1522. A Sourcebook of Early Modern European History, 203–205. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781351243292-58