Martin Luther

The challenges in Christianity in the 15th century were the most significant in its history. The challenge of the Protestant Reformation and the response of the Catholic Church through the Counter-Reformation shattered the religious unity of Europe.

The society of the late Medieval Period leading up to the end of the 15th century was one in which was fearful and superstitious. The Black Death, which killed millions of people in Europe, had a deep impact on the Christian beliefs. Many people believed that the plague was cause by God who was angry with the people for their sins that the plague was a way for God to punish them for their sins. Also a vast number of priests died ministering the sick. To replace the priests many were ordained without preparation. Therefore many trained priests greedily ask for wages for their services. As a result corruption became widespread throughout the church.

Also the society of the late Medieval Period had a disillusioned with the papacy due to...