The Erasmian Ján Henkel and his world The personality of Ján Henkel, theologian, jurist and humanist is not unknown in Slovak historiography. Nevertheless, our knowledge of his life and thinking is quite modest, which raises many...
moreThe Erasmian Ján Henkel and his world
The personality of Ján Henkel, theologian, jurist and humanist is not unknown in Slovak historiography. Nevertheless, our knowledge of his life and thinking is quite modest, which raises many questions, particularly in the matter of his relation to the Reformation and other elites of the Hungary of that age. This article seeks answers in Henkel correspondence, which he held with famous humanists – Erasmus of Ro-tterdam, Nicolaus Oláh and others. In this correspondence Henkel let us know his opinion about Reformation and political situation in Hungary. The main authority and example for Henkel was Erasmus of Rotherdam and conversely, Erasmus held same respect to Henkel. Author observes, that Henkel´s opinion, which he presented before Queen Mary of Hungary or in the chamber of deputies in Augsburg, are more opinions of humanist than a reformer. In the mirror of his correspondence remains Henkel as Erasmian – an adherent of the Church’s unity, truth and tolerance of mis-takes.
