Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life [Paperback]

Rudolf K. Markwald (Author), Marilynn Morris Markwald (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 2002

This book seeks to establish Katharina von Bora, the daughter of German nobility who in the tumult of Reformation Europe married the church's most famous reformer, as "an extraordinary woman--a spiritual person whose faith and courage stand as an example today." In 16 chapters, the authors trace Katy's background, birth, childhood and early adult years, and her marriage to Martin Luther. They also document Katy's last years, revealing the faith and legacy of a woman who held steadfast to Christ in great adversity and need and who also advocated evangelical reforms. Acquainted with tragedy and grief, Katy exhibited a deep spirituality, encouraging her family and friends in times of desperation and doubt and providing for the numerous guests to the parsonage.

--This text refers to the Kindle Edition edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 253 pages
• Publisher: Concordia Publishing House (October 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0758600003
• ISBN-13: 978-0758600004
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 6.8 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #605,718 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #88 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > Other Eastern Religions > Confucianism

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars At Last -- A Definitive Biography in English, November 30, 2002

By 

John H. Pleuss (Madison, WI United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life (Paperback)

Rudolph and Marilyn Markwald have done the English speaking world a great favor by writing the first real biography in English of Katharina von Bora, Martin Luther's wife. (Sure, there are other titles in English concerning Katie, but they are historical novels rather than real biographies.)

The Markwalds have added their own original research to that of German biographers who preceded them. This was a challenge because there are only 8 letters of Katharina that are extant. Fortunately, there is substantial relevant material also available in Luther's letters, letters of other contemporaries, transcripts of the Table Talk, and convent and municipal records. The result is a well-researched and fascinating text which is both quite readable and accurate (supported by extensive footnoting).

The text covers Katharina's birth, convent life, escape from the convent, marriage to Luther, managing the Luther household and raising a family, hosting visits of important thinkers and theologians, nursing Luther through his health problems, coping with poverty after Luther's death, and her own accidental death while fleeing the plague.

Despite the plethora of books on Luther, until now there was not a good English biography of this strong, independent woman (sometimes called the Queen of the Reformation and the Balance Wheel of the Reformation) who supported, challenged, and encouraged the Great Reformer.

I highly recommend this book to all who are interested in Lutheran and Reformation history.

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding Witness to Martin's Rib, May 5, 2003

By 

rodboomboom (Dearborn, Michigan United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life (Paperback)

As noted by another reviewer, this is first full scope biography in English of this significant figure in church history, especially that of the Reformation.

While many have heard much in the way of husband Martin's praise of his marvelous Kati, she certainly has been shortsuited in published works until this worthy volume.

Markwald's provide well documented primary and secondary source bio of this nun turned Great Reformer's wife. Going through the turbulence of life would be enough, yet add to that the pressure of keeping up with one who is at vortex of sweeping reform, with infamous Table guests and conversation and demanding family and church life as well.

Not only a significant support to her husband and family, this readable and informative work presents through letter correspondence a remarkable portrait of a strong believer with convictions of her own and an intensity of faith and contentment which only comes from the strongest of the saints.

Many will gain much from this read which hopefully might stimulate other contributions to this First Lady of the Reformation.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Lutheran History, August 31, 2010

By 

Pamela S. Vermons "Pasadena Pam" (Glendora, CA USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life (Paperback)

Great insight to the life of Martin Luther and the reformation by his wife, a former nun. Good read for how 'equal' her life was for those times.