Andreas Bodenstein von Karlstadt

Andreas Rudolff Bodenstein (b. 1486–d. 1541) is usually named after his hometown Karlstadt in Franconia (sometimes spelled as Carlstadt). was one of the most influential early reformers Wittenberg next to colleague Martin Luther, and an propagandist a common theology. productive Reformation writers until mid-1520s, he initiated furthered key debates issues, including on clerical marriage, reform worship, biblical canon, question images, infant baptism, understanding Lord’s Supper. He first publicly defend support Luther Wittenberg’s theological ideas from opponents instigated literary controversy with Eck that led Leipzig Disputation. As result, also papal bull condemning supporters. within movement have major falling out Luther’s resulting judgment negative characterization left legacy uncertain historical narrative for long time. While hiding at Wartburg Worms, advanced Wittenberg. advocate marriage 1521–1522 writings, public evangelical mass (communion both kinds) Christmas Day 1521. After Karlstadt’s criticism images used iconoclasm returned reject several reforms worship associated what called “the movement,” censured preaching or publishing In spring 1523, became minister Orlamünde (Thuringia), where able successfully implement some before being expelled Saxony September 1524. Although no denomination originated him, participated influenced strands their beginnings development. addition contributions development Wittenberg, communication proto-Anabaptist Anabaptist leaders (e.g., Thomas Müntzer, Melchior Hoffman) Swiss Ulrich Zwingli, Oecolampadius), settling down professor Old Testament Basel during last years life (1534–1541) influencing reformed Protestant curriculum. complex character refuses simple categorization, has not been easy figure historians theologians understand. We continue better understand use received sources (Augustine other Church Fathers, scholastic theology, traditions jurisprudence, mysticism, etc.), reformer own right, Reformations beyond. This exciting time advancement research, Karlstadt-Edition Göttingen, Germany, makes continued progress complete critical edition letters writings (KGK).