Erasmus and the Age of Reformation

by Johan Huizinga

"Erasmus and the Age of Reformation" by Johan Huizinga is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the life and contributions of Desiderius Erasmus, placing him in the broader context of the European Reformation and the cultural developments of his time, particularly in the Netherlands. Huizinga details Erasmus's early years, his experiences in the church, and his role as a pivotal figure in Renaissance humanism. The opening of the work introduces the historical backdrop of the Low Countries during the 15th century and provides a glimpse into Erasmus's childhood and early education. It discusses the sociopolitical landscape of the time, including the influence of the Burgundian power and the development of the "devotio moderna", a movement aimed at revitalizing religious life. The text emphasizes Erasmus's illegitimate birth and his family's background, illustrating how these elements shaped his early experiences. Huizinga outlines Erasmus's formative years in various schools and his eventual entry into monastic life, which initiated his intellectual journey toward becoming one of the most important figures of the Renaissance.