Implications of the relationship between Erasmus and the Turkish question for Hungary

Abstract

Erasmus of Rotterdam (1466–1536), often called the “prince of humanists,” dedicated his life to fostering Christian unity, the Respublica Christiana. Through his efforts, he established a new philosophical approach known as Erasmianism. He regarded the issue of the Turkish threat as critical, as it hindered the fulfillment of his goals. Erasmus leveraged all his influence within European politics to advocate for the hoped-for peace. Hungarian Erasmians also did their best to support this cause, experiencing firsthand the severe repercussions of Turkish expansion. Several prominent Hungarian Erasmians were connected with Erasmus, and collaborated with him or approached the Turkish issue from different perspectives.