Problems and Challenges of the Modern Historiography of the Zwinglian Reformation

Abstract

Abstract Critical research into the Zwinglian Reformation arose in the period of historicism and liberalism in the 19th century. The pioneers of this research accomplished important achievements, especially by publishing critical editions of Zwingli’s works. At the same time, they interpreted Zwingli as a liberator and educator of the people rather than as a theologian. In the twentieth century, research perspectives multiplied. Zwingli has been taken more seriously as a theologian, and the tight alliance between the Reformation and politics has been emphasized. The intricate political structure and the Republican mentality of the Confederation deeply shaped the character of the Swiss Reformation. Zwingli was its central figure, but the Swiss Reformation should be called a Communal Reformation (Gemeindereformation). Having many similarities to the Wittenberg Reformation, it is nevertheless an independent variety within the pan-European Reformation movements. We must, therefore, study the Swiss Reformation with its own distinct development and dynamics, as well as within its interconnected European-wide network.