History of the Reformation in the Sixteenth Century, Volume 2 by Jean-Henri Merle d'Aubigné is a comprehensive and enlightening account of the religious and political upheaval that shaped Europe during this turbulent period. The author provides a detailed examination of key events and figures, shedding light on the complexities of the Reformation movement.

One of the strengths of this book is its meticulous research and attention to detail. Merle d'Aubigné offers a thorough analysis of the various factors that contributed to the spread of Protestantism, including the role of individuals such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, as well as the political machinations of European rulers. The author's clear and engaging writing style makes this complex history accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

Furthermore, Merle d'Aubigné does an excellent job of contextualizing the events of the Reformation within the larger sociopolitical landscape of the time. The book delves into topics such as religious persecution, the rise of nationalism, and the impact of the printing press on the spread of ideas. By weaving together these different threads, the author provides a nuanced and multifaceted understanding of this critical period in European history.

Overall, History of the Reformation in the Sixteenth Century, Volume 2 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the Reformation and its lasting impact on Western civilization. Merle d'Aubigné's scholarship and insight make this book a must-read for students of history and anyone with an interest in the religious and intellectual developments of the sixteenth century.

Book Description:
The History of the Reformation in the Sixteenth Century, by Jean-Henri Merle d’Aubigné, is a classic work on the great events that re-opened the Christian gospel to a needy world. The author was a Swiss Protestant pastor. He was also a historian with a great understanding of the Bible, along with a broad and deep knowledge of the Reformation.

D’Aubigné tells the story of outstanding people who had a love for God and his word, and who dared to present biblical truths which had been obscured for centuries. The book has helped and encouraged Christians through difficult times, and given them an understanding of the background from which our freedom in the faith has come.

This great work is made up of five volumes. The first volume covered the early days, including the call of Martin Luther – first, from Erfurt University with the prospect of becoming a well-paid lawyer, to become a poor monk. And then, from an obscure monastery, his call to centre stage in world history. One day, while studying in the university library, he had taken down from the shelf a volume that caught his interest. It was a Bible! He was astonished to find in this volume so much more than the fragments of gospels and epistles that were selected for public reading in churches. And it was this discovery, in a dusty university library, of a complete copy of the inspired book from which those readings came, that changed the course of history.

Luther’s story continues in Volume 2, in which we are also introduced to the Swiss reformer, Zwingli. Volume 2 comprises four books which are: Book 5 – The Discussion of Leipsic, 1519; Book 6 – The Bull of Rome, 1520; Book 7 – The Diet of Worms, 1521 ; Book 8 – The Swiss .Summary by Christopher Smith.