Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

Which evidence does the author provide to support the claim that Luther's theses were meant for a wider audience?

1. The translation of Luther's theses and their rapid printing

2. Luther’s academic credentials and scholarly reputation

3. The direct appeal to church leaders in his theses

4. The public debates held in Wittenberg

The correct answer is: The translation of Luther's theses and their rapid printing

The author's claim that Luther's theses were intended for a wider audience is strongly supported by the evidence of the translation of these theses and their rapid printing. Luther initially wrote his 95 Theses in Latin, targeting the academic community and church authorities. However, the subsequent translation into German made the content accessible to a broader public. The availability of printed copies facilitated widespread dissemination, allowing people beyond the scholarly elite to engage with his ideas. This method of communication demonstrated Luther's desire to spark discussion and debate among the general populace and not just among academics or clerics. The rapid spread of the theses through the newly developed printing press revolutionized access to information, evidencing Luther's intention to reach a mass audience and catalyze reform within the church.