The Protestant Revolution in England at the time of Edward VI (1547-1553) Cover Image

Rewolucja protestancka w Anglii za czasów Edwarda VI (1547-1553)
The Protestant Revolution in England at the time of Edward VI (1547-1553)

Author(s): Piotr Musiewicz
Subject(s): History
Published by: KSIĘGARNIA AKADEMICKA Sp. z o.o.

Summary/Abstract: This essay outlines the religious and political situation in England during the eight years of Edward’s reign. First, we will indicate the main points of conflict during the Reformation, the position of the secular ruler and changes in confession of faith made by Edward’s predecessor – Henry VIII (1509 -1547). The main part of the essay will show the group of English protestants gathered around the juvenile king – with arcbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer as the leader of this group. They will be indicating some interesting justifications for the dominance of the secular ruler over the Church. We will also present certain laws supporting the king’s and parliament’s powers. That strong position of English ruler allowed him to force religious reforms in the protestant spirit: we are also to describe the doctrinal and liturgical changes made by Edward, his tutors and counsellors. In the protestant group of that time we can see two fractions, differing themselves in the method of advancing protestant reforms. Finally, we are to mention the character of religious reforms made by Edward’s successors in the sixteenth century: this comparison should help us perceive the originality and radicalism of Edwardian protestant order.

  • Issue Year: 7/2010
  • Issue No: 13
  • Page Range: 95-107
  • Page Count: 13
  • Language: Polish