The Oxford Reformers: John Colet, Erasmus, and Thomas More (eBook)

Frederic Seebohm (1833–1912) was a distinguished British historian recognized for his extensive research on the social and economic history of England. Born in Bradford, Yorkshire, he was not only a man of letters but also a banker by profession, which infused his historical work with a keen insight into the economic underpinnings of societal development. Seebohm's scholarly approach drew from a breadth of sources, setting him apart as a meticulous researcher in an era when historical rigor was burgeoning into the academic discipline we recognize today. His magnum opus, 'The Oxford Reformers: John Colet, Erasmus, and Thomas More', first published in 1867, is a seminal work that recounts the lives and intellectual pursuits of these three pivotal figures of the European Renaissance and Reformation. Seebohm's narrative skillfully interlaces the biographical details with in-depth analysis of their theological and humanist contributions, situating their work within the broader context of European intellectual history. The book remains a key resource for historians and students of Reformation and Renaissance studies, illustrating Seebohm's ability to synthesize vast amounts of historical detail into a compelling, lucid narrative. His literary style is marked by precise documentation and a clarity of exposition, characteristics that have bolstered the endurance of his works in the academic discourse. Through Seebohm's contributions to historical literature, he established himself as a critical figure in the study of the social and religious transformations of his time.