THE KINGDOM OF CHRIST ON EARTH: PROPHETISM AND MILITANCY IN THOMAS MÜNTZER

Abstract

The article discusses the role of Thomas Müntzer as theologian and activist during the Peasants' War. The conflict occurred in Germany in the first half of the sixteenth century. Following the initially friendly relationship with Martin Luther, Müntzer would differ from the augustinian monk preaching radical reform involved with religious elements who identified with the demands of the peasants. The boldness of the theologian took him, along with the peasants, to a tragic end. In the twentieth century, the revolutionary action of the prophet came to be associated with the ideas of "precursor of the socialist revolution". Among the interpreters of the actions of the theologian tower the contributions of Hugo Echegaray and Ernst Bloch. Bloch saw in Thomas Müntzer the "theologian of the revolution". The emphasis of the article turns to the studies conducted by these two interpreters. However, other sources such as the homilies of Thomaz Müntzer and "The Twelve Articles of the peasants" seek to qualify the reflection.