02-The Distant Rumble of Battle

Wittenberg, 1517 – the Elector’s fear – Tetzel – Luther’s resolve

It is the 31st of October, 1517. Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony makes his final preparations for the great festival which he has arranged for tomorrow, All Saints Day. The festival will take place in his Church – the Castle Church at Wittenberg – the Church which Frederick has filled with precious relics. Why, he has even managed to obtain some pieces of the actual cross of Christ! And tomorrow... tomorrow... Frederick can picture it all. The relics will be carried out... with due solemnity, of course... paraded in public with massive pomp and show, to be set before the believing masses for their adoration. The precious, holy relics, so carefully collected on his instructions, will be adorned with twinkling gems, gleaming in gold and silver to be displayed before the eyes of the faithful. Oh yes, Frederick can picture it. The thronging crowds, all agog, dazzled by the splendour of the day. And it’s to take place in Wittenberg... in his Church... in his town... under his patronage... He allows himself a little smile.