Luther Examined and Reexamined A Review of Catholic Criticism and a Plea for Revaluation By: W. H. T. (William Herman Theodore) Dau (1864-1944)
Luther Examined and Reexamined by W. H. T. Dau is a thought-provoking book that delves into the complex arguments surrounding Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformation, and the subsequent Catholic criticism. As an academic work, it offers a well-researched and thorough analysis of these historical events, providing valuable insights to both scholars and general readers interested in this subject. The author, William Herman Theodore Dau, displays a deep understanding of Luther's impact on the Church and society. He skillfully presents Luther's key ideas and their implications, examining their compatibility with Catholic doctrine. Dau's arguments are grounded in extensive references to primary sources, including Luther's writings and Catholic theologians' responses to them. This approach lends credibility to his analysis and strengthens his overall thesis. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its balanced approach. Dau neither blindly praises nor harshly criticizes Luther; instead, he critically examines Luther's theological positions, highlighting areas of compatibility and divergence with Catholicism. This nuanced perspective allows readers to form their own opinions while being guided by a well-informed voice. Dau's ability to present multiple viewpoints with clarity makes this book an excellent resource for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of Luther's beliefs and the subsequent Catholic critiques. Furthermore, Dau's prose is accessible, rendering the complex theological debates into language that can be understood by a wide audience. This accessibility is particularly valuable for readers who may be unfamiliar with the historical context or the intricacies of Christian theology. The author's skillful explanations and clarifications make the book engaging and enjoyable to read, even for those without a strong background in these subjects. However, a potential drawback of the book is its occasional bias towards defending Luther and the Protestant cause. While Dau claims to offer a plea for revaluation, some readers may find his arguments overly sympathetic towards Luther and dismissive of Catholic critique. This could lead to a perception of the book as lacking objectivity. Additionally, the structure of the book could have been improved with clearer organization, as the content occasionally feels disjointed. In conclusion, Luther Examined and Reexamined is a valuable contribution to the study of Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformation, and the ensuing Catholic response. Dau's deep knowledge and careful analysis create an enlightening and engaging read. While there are some minor flaws, this book remains an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the historical and theological impact of Luther's ideas. First Page: Luther Examined and Reexamined A Review of Catholic Criticism and a Plea for Revaluation By W.H.T. Dau, Professor, Concordia Theological Seminary St. Louis, Mo. Concordia Publishing House 1917 PREFACE. One may deplore the pathetic courage which periodically heartens Catholic writers for the task of writing against Luther, but one can understand the necessity for such efforts, and, accordingly, feel a real pity for those who make them. Attacks on Luther are demanded for Catholics by the law of self preservation. A recent Catholic writer correctly says: "There is no doubt that the religious problem to day is still the Luther problem." "Almost every statement of those religious doctrines which are opposed to Catholic moral teaching find their authorization in the theology of Martin Luther." Rome has never acknowledged her errors nor admitted her moral defeat. The lessons of past history are wasted upon her. Rome is determined to assert to the end that she was not, and cannot be, vanquished. In the age of the Reformation, she admits, she suffered some losses, but she claims that she is fast retrieving these, while Protestantism is decadent and decaying. No opposition to her can hope to succeed. This is done to bolster up Catholic courage. The intelligent Catholic layman of the present day makes his own observations, and draws his own conclusions as to the status and the future prospect of Protestantism... Continue reading book >>

Luther Examined and Reexamined A Review of Catholic Criticism and a Plea for Revaluation By: W. H. T. (William Herman Theodore) Dau (1864-1944)

Luther Examined and Reexamined by W. H. T. Dau is a thought-provoking book that delves into the complex arguments surrounding Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformation, and the subsequent Catholic criticism. As an academic work, it offers a well-researched and thorough analysis of these historical events, providing valuable insights to both scholars and general readers interested in this subject.

The author, William Herman Theodore Dau, displays a deep understanding of Luther's impact on the Church and society. He skillfully presents Luther's key ideas and their implications, examining their compatibility with Catholic doctrine. Dau's arguments are grounded in extensive references to primary sources, including Luther's writings and Catholic theologians' responses to them. This approach lends credibility to his analysis and strengthens his overall thesis.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its balanced approach. Dau neither blindly praises nor harshly criticizes Luther; instead, he critically examines Luther's theological positions, highlighting areas of compatibility and divergence with Catholicism. This nuanced perspective allows readers to form their own opinions while being guided by a well-informed voice. Dau's ability to present multiple viewpoints with clarity makes this book an excellent resource for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of Luther's beliefs and the subsequent Catholic critiques.

Furthermore, Dau's prose is accessible, rendering the complex theological debates into language that can be understood by a wide audience. This accessibility is particularly valuable for readers who may be unfamiliar with the historical context or the intricacies of Christian theology. The author's skillful explanations and clarifications make the book engaging and enjoyable to read, even for those without a strong background in these subjects.

However, a potential drawback of the book is its occasional bias towards defending Luther and the Protestant cause. While Dau claims to offer a plea for revaluation, some readers may find his arguments overly sympathetic towards Luther and dismissive of Catholic critique. This could lead to a perception of the book as lacking objectivity. Additionally, the structure of the book could have been improved with clearer organization, as the content occasionally feels disjointed.

In conclusion, Luther Examined and Reexamined is a valuable contribution to the study of Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformation, and the ensuing Catholic response. Dau's deep knowledge and careful analysis create an enlightening and engaging read. While there are some minor flaws, this book remains an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the historical and theological impact of Luther's ideas.

First Page:

Luther Examined and Reexamined A Review of Catholic Criticism and a Plea for Revaluation

By W.H.T. Dau, Professor, Concordia Theological Seminary

St. Louis, Mo. Concordia Publishing House 1917

PREFACE. One may deplore the pathetic courage which periodically heartens Catholic writers for the task of writing against Luther, but one can understand the necessity for such efforts, and, accordingly, feel a real pity for those who make them. Attacks on Luther are demanded for Catholics by the law of self preservation. A recent Catholic writer correctly says: "There is no doubt that the religious problem to day is still the Luther problem." "Almost every statement of those religious doctrines which are opposed to Catholic moral teaching find their authorization in the theology of Martin Luther."

Rome has never acknowledged her errors nor admitted her moral defeat. The lessons of past history are wasted upon her. Rome is determined to assert to the end that she was not, and cannot be, vanquished. In the age of the Reformation, she admits, she suffered some losses, but she claims that she is fast retrieving these, while Protestantism is decadent and decaying. No opposition to her can hope to succeed.

This is done to bolster up Catholic courage. The intelligent Catholic layman of the present day makes his own observations, and draws his own conclusions as to the status and the future prospect of Protestantism... Continue reading book >>

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