CHY 4U1 – Image Analysis
The Reformation – Martin Luther’s Revolt
Discussing the illustration:
1. This drawing shows a scene that would have shocked most people in Europe in 1520. It
shows Luther that year in the act of burning a piece of paper called a “Papal Bull”. Can
you explain what the Papal Bull is?
2. This particular Papal Bull was called Exsurge Domine, and it threatened Luther with
excommunication. What does that mean?
3. By 1520, Luther had written several pamphlets or tracts about Indulgences and many
other Church practices and beliefs that he felt were wrong. The Pope threatened to
excommunicate him for his views. What point do you think Luther was trying to make
by burning this Papal Bull in public as he is shown doing here?
4. Why was Luther’s act seen as so shocking by many in Europe in 1520? Do you think
Luther was right to take this step? Why or why not?