Past Masters: Erasmus

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Translator of the Bible, the Fathers, and the classics, and corrosive critic of official belief and popular devotion, Erasmus of Rotterdam (1467-1536) was the leading humanist of the Reformation and the first bestselling author in printing history. Eclipsed by the aggressive tenets of Lutheranism, Erasmus's witty and original ideas on religion were subsequently dismissed for lacking gravity and depth, although they continued to have a vast influence on European literature and thought. However, as James McConica shows, his views on the sources of Christian faith, the theory and practice of education, the uses of language, the need for social harmony, and the responsibilities shared by governors and governed are enjoying a revival in these ecumenical times.