Martin Luther: The Idea That Changed the World

Five hundred years ago, a lowly monk named Martin Luther transformed world history. Narrated by Hugh Bonneville, filmmaker David Batty’s PBS-aired biography examines the arc of Luther’s turbulent and productive life. Luther always struggled with depression, along with feelings of guilt and a deep sense of unworthiness. After nearly being killed in a violent thunderstorm, Luther experienced a spiritual revelation, turning away from his father’s wish that he become a lawyer and instead joining the church. Always a hard worker, Luther rose rapidly in the monastery, where he focused on the questions "Am I a good person?" and "How do I get salvation?" At one point, Luther walked hundreds of miles to Rome, only to find "depravity." He was particularly outraged by the Catholic Church’s sale of indulgences, a "salvation for sale" scheme that Luther felt led people away from God. Taking advantage of the new technology of the printing press, and using blunt, earthy (even profane) language, Luther questioned the authority of the Pope, urging Christians to "believe freely," only accepting scripture as authority. To this end, Luther translated the Bible into German, increased music in services (even writing the famous "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"), and used the power of images to supplement the text (Luther ultimately wrote some 130 books). The film covers Luther’s famous 95 theses (debate topics) challenging religious doctrine, his difficulties with Rome and German authorities that led to well-attended trials, and his acceptance of the need for sex within marriage (he fathered six children by a former nun). Also examined is Luther’s self-righteousness and his sometimes vicious anti-Semitic writings, which were hailed centuries later by the Nazis. Luther was a flawed figure with a complex personality, but his belief in the power of hope, grace, and forgiveness endures, inspiring modern day democratic and civil rights movements. Featuring dramatic recreations featuring Padraic Delaney as Luther, this well-written biographical profile is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)