Cranmer Studies

Rev. Dr. Gerald Bray, “Documents of the English Reformation:” Tyndale continues the protest against Joye’s exegesis of the word “resurrection” as “eternal life” (30). Rev. Dr. Philip Edgcumbe Hughes, “Theology of English Reformers:” The properties of a good preacher 136). Quotes from Latimer and Pilkington show that the good preacher exposes sin at all levels of all people. A “thankless” but “necessary” duty. He points to John the Baptist, Jesus and the prophets. Well, the Marcionites of the 21st century will choke right there. Diarmaid McCulloch’s “Thomas Cranmer:” Prof. Mac gives additional details about the events surrounding the passage of the 1539 Articles. Cranmer advises Alexander Alesius to flee. He also acknowledges that he, Dr. Cranmer, has subscribed due to “fear,” a convincing piece of Cranmerian prostration to Henry. Mac tries to moderate our assessment of the lap-dog theory, but it doesn’t work. Latimer and Shaxton had principles and resigned (251). Arthur Innes: “Cranmer and the Reformation in England:” The English pulpits are “tuned” to sing Harry’s praises. Crumwell falls, it is claimed, due to the Cleves-fiasco (79). Is it really that simple? Crum tries to ally with the Germans using Anne as a foil or connective tissue? What else is the backstory? Of course, Archbishop Lapdog will do another “nullity” gig for Henry. The fanboys of Cranmer won't like our views, but RealPolitik and subserviency--fears--informed Cranmer. Leslie Williams’ “Emblem of Faith Untouched: A Short Life of Thomas Cranmer:” Williams gives a fast wrap on 1535 with Crumwell, a layman, being appointed as the Vicar General of the Church of England, an Assistant Pope to Pope Henry. Cranmer is demoted, in principle, although as Crum’s counselor, our ABC is still influential (46-47). Ridley, Jaspar. “Thomas Cranmer:” Prof. Ridley tries to shield Cranmer from his critics, e.g., a Royalist lapdog. It is not compelling. (212-213). Ridley tells us that Henry saw Tom as a useful, learned, and pliable tool, in the event Henry wanted to move forward in more of a Reformation direction.