Watch Empires: Martin Luther

Empires: Martin Luther is a fascinating look into one of the most pivotal figures in European history, exploring the origins of the Protestant Reformation and its impact on religion and society. Produced by PBS, the show offers a comprehensive overview of Martin Luther's life, teachings and legacy, and sheds light on the historical context in which he lived, worked and transformed the world.

The series is comprised of four episodes, each dedicated to a different aspect of Luther's career and his impact on the world. The first episode introduces us to Luther as a young monk, struggling with his sense of sin and his quest for salvation. We learn about his early education, his devotion to the Catholic Church, and his eventual rift with its teachings.

The second episode delves into Luther's famous 95 Theses, a set of critical arguments against the Catholic Church's practice of selling indulgences, which he nailed to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church in 1517. The show details the fierce controversy that ensued, with the Church accusing Luther of heresy and calling for his excommunication.

The third episode explores the aftermath of Luther's excommunication, as he becomes a champion of religious reform and a leader of the burgeoning Protestant movement. We see Luther translating the Bible into German and spreading his teachings far and wide, despite fierce opposition from the Church and the ruling powers.

The final episode examines Luther's later years and his impact on the world beyond religion. We see how his ideas about individual freedom, equality and democracy laid the groundwork for modern liberal democracy, and how his emphasis on personal responsibility, self-discipline and education influenced the development of modern capitalism and industrialization.

Throughout the show, we hear from a range of expert scholars, theologians, historians and other luminaries, who offer insightful commentary on Luther's life, work and legacy. We also see stunning footage of the German countryside, medieval towns and cities, and iconic sites such as Wittenberg, the Castle Church and Luther's home.

One of the strengths of Empires: Martin Luther is its ability to connect Luther's ideas and experiences to broader historical and cultural trends. We learn about the political, economic and social factors that shaped Luther's worldview, including the rise of nation-states, the growth of mercantilism, and the changing role of literacy and printing in European society.

Another strength is the show's ability to present complex theological debates and concepts in a clear and engaging way. We see how Luther's concept of sola fide, or faith alone, challenged the Catholic Church's doctrine of salvation through good works, and how his understanding of the Bible as the ultimate authority led to new interpretations of religious texts and practices.

Overall, Empires: Martin Luther is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of religion, Europe, and Western civilization. It offers a nuanced and illuminating portrait of one of the most influential figures of the past 500 years, and shows how his ideas and actions continue to shape our world today.