Collected Works of Erasmus: Controversies, Volume 76

Erasmus' controversies with French, Italian, Spanish, and German critics on theological, social, philological, educational, and other matters are contained in volumes 71-84 of the Collected Works of Erasmus. Volume 76 includes two of his most important disputes with Luther, A Discussion of Free Will and the first part of Hyperaspistes (usually translated as 'protector' or 'shield-bearer'). Erasmus writes in response to Luther's The Enslaved Will and rebukes Luther for his arrogance and for his insulting charge that Erasmus is an atheist. In these works, Erasmus sets out in detail his views on important questions of scripture and church doctrine and tradition in his eloquent defence of free will. A masterly introduction by Professor Trinkaus provides the necessary background for the reader's understanding and appreciation of the struggle between Erasmus and Luther. The second part of Hyperaspistes appears in volume 77, as does the index to both volumes 76 and 77.

Volume 76 of the Collected Works of Erasmus series.

Desiderius Erasmus (c. 1466–1536), a Dutch humanist, Catholic priest, and scholar, was one of the most influential Renaissance figures. A professor of divinity and Greek, Erasmus wrote, taught, and travelled, meeting with Europe’s foremost scholars. A prolific author, Erasmus wrote on both ecclesiastic and general human interest subjects.


Charles Trinkaus is retired from the Department of History, University of Michigan.