Reichsstift und Reformation : Fürstäbtissin Anna II. von Quedlinburg zwischen Landesherrschaft, Reich und religiöser Erneuerung (1517–1580)

Abstract

The introduction of the Reformation in the Quedlinburg Imperial Abbey is examined in this work in a comprehensive manner on the macro, meso, and micro levels. The complex interplay between the Princess-Abbess and the Emperor, the Empire and its institutions, other imperial estates, the protector, the Quedlinburg council, the clergy, and the subjects is considered. The Reformation 'from below' by the subjects is combined with the Reformations 'from above' by the Princess-Abbess and her protector in a new, multi-perspective way. Special focus is placed on the 'Reformation Abbess' Anna II, a Countess of Stolberg-Wernigerode. The work highlights how she managed the opportunities and risks associated with the Reformation and examines various aspects of her rule, such as her court, titles, networks within the chapter, and her involvement in the Imperial Diets.