Contested Reformations in the University of Cambridge, 1535–1584 (Studies in History New Series), Woodbridge, Royal Historical Society, The Boydell Press, 2018; hardback; pp. x, 235; R.R.P. £50; ISBN 9780861933471

Abstract

<p>Martin Bucer's funeral at Cambridge in 1551 could be described as 'a display of Protestant piety and celebration' (p.1), but his exhumation and burning six years later signalled 'Catholic condemnation and triumph' (p.1). By 1560 the deceased and desecrated Bucer was reinstated as a member of the university (p.112) though his heresies were so odious to some that Great St Mary's Church was reconsecrated on account of Bucer's body having lain therein (p.76). The tale of Bucer's body is the story of the disputed legacy of the Cambridge Reformation. Chancellor John Fisher went to the scaffold in 1535 and Emmanuel College was founded on Puritan principles in 1584. The period between these events is investigated here.</p>