Stoic roots of early reformational resistance theory : a marginal note on the origins of the right to resistance in early reformational political thought

Abstract

As expressed in his Institutes in 1536, John Calvin’s views on the right of subjects to resist the political oppression of rulers were preceded by developments in Lutheranism that sought recognition of the right to resist of tyranny. The acknowledgement of such a right to resist was kindled by Luther’s and Melanchton’s reading and interpretation of Cicero’s views in this regard. The application of Cicero’s views by the early Reformers provided them with the theoretical requirements for acknowledging the right to resist tyranny. This article adds a few marginal notes to early Reformational resistance theory and questions efforts at crediting Calvin (and Calvinism) with too much originality in this sphere.