Sample Material of UPSC Mains Philosophy (Optional) Study Kit
Topic: Western Philosophy (The Reformation and Counter Reformation)
The Reformation and Counter-Reformation, alike, represent the
rebellion of less civilized nations against the intellectual domination of
Italy. In the case of the Reformation, the revolt was also political and
theological: the authority of the Pope was rejected, and the tribute which he
had obtained from the power of the keys ceased to be paid. In the case of the
Counter-Reformation, there was only revolt against the intellectual and moral
freedom of Renaissance Italy; the power of the Pope was not diminished, but
enhanced, while at the same time it was made clear that his authority was
incompatible with the easy-going laxity of the Borgias and Medici.
Roughly speaking, the Reformation was German, the Counter-Reformation Spanish;
the wars of religion were at the same time wars between Spain and its enemies,
coinciding in date with the period when Spanish power was at its height. The
attitude of public opinion in northern nations towards Renaissance Italy is
illustrated in the English saying of that time: