Examine the role played by Frederick the Wise in the spread of Lutheran ideas in Germany.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between the role played by Frederick the Wise and the spread of Lutheran ideas in Germany. Candidates may examine the close relationship Frederick had with Luther as he protected him from the Pope and the Emperor. He took Luther into custody at Wartburg Castle and refused to send him to Rome to be judged. Candidates may also point out that Frederick the Wise supported Luther to enable him to continue his intellectual work and the translation of the Bible. Frederick the Wise also allowed Luther to be heard before the Diet of Worms in 1521 where he explained his ideas. Candidates may address other relevant factors, for example that Frederick the Wise was the founder and protector of the University of Wittenberg, an important intellectual centre for the Reformation movement. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the interrelationship between the role played by Frederick the Wise and the spread of Lutheran ideas in Germany.