Reformation and Counter-Reformation Culture in Germany

While reading the second chapter of Germany: A New History by Hagen Schulze, which covered fifteenth through seventeenth century Germany, one topic that particularly stood out to me was the idea of Counter-Reformation culture and its impact. I found it interesting because when I previously considered the Protestant Reformation, I always focused on the schism within the Church, the creation of new Christian denominations, and the repercussions it had on European politics. Some nations, like Ireland, still deal with the divide today. But I never really thought to consider the Reformation and Counter-Reformation’s effects on European culture. Art is a hobby of mine, so the Counter-Reformation’s impact on the arts also interested me.

A map of religious divisions in Europe in 1648. The regions sharing similar religions influenced each other culturally. Since Germany was divided, the northeast and south developed much differently. source

Following the Protestant Reformation, western and southern Germany remained largely Catholic and thus was influenced by the Counter-Reformation culture of southern Europe, especially France and Italy, according to Schulze’s text. Because Protestant reformers rejected the use of visual arts in the church, the northeast focused on music and the study of language and literature. Even with an emphasis on literature, the common people remained largely illiterate until the invention of the printing press. The Catholics opposed Protestant severity and instead strongly encouraged the arts. This lead to the development of an extravagant artistic, theatrical, and architectural style, known as Baroque. The style was highly expressive and dramatic, yet easily interpreted. Religious themes and ideas were communicated to the illiterate masses through the arts, with the church as its sponsor. 

The Basilica of the Fourteen Holy Helpers (Basilika Vierzehnheiligen) in Bad Staffelstein, Bavaria. This church demonstrates the extravagance of the Counter-Reformation. source 

The development of differing cultures, rooted in the Reformation and Counter Reformation, continue to reveal the issues of unity and identity in early German history. I found it especially interesting that the consequences of the cultural divide can still be found in Germany today. Southern Germans remain largely Catholic while those in the north and east are mostly Protestant.

The divide can also be seen in German Baroque architecture. The splendid cathedrals in the south contrast with the plain northern churches. I especially look forward to experiencing this cultural difference as we explore German architecture during our trip in December. (403)