ABOUT DESIDERIUS ERASMUS

​ Desiderius Erasmus, a prominent thinker of the Renaissance, is known as a Dutch priest, writer, and humanist. He was born on October 27, 1466, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and passed away on July 12, 1536, in Basel, Switzerland. His name, Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus, comes from Latin and he is referred to as "Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam."

​ Erasmus is recognized for his contributions to church reforms and the critical examination of Christian teachings. His works are considered significant for addressing criticisms of the Catholic Church during his time and exploring topics such as humanism, religion, ethics, and education.

Here is more detailed information about Erasmus's life and thoughts:

1. Early Years:

​ Erasmus was born in Rotterdam and grew up with his mother. He started his education at a young age and drew attention with his eagerness to learn. Before joining the church, he received education in Paris and other European cities.

2. Humanism and Education:

​ Erasmus grew up under the influence of the Renaissance humanism movement and emphasized classical literature and language studies. He believed in the need for reform in education and advocated for people to be more open to knowledge. He was an expert in Latin and Greek grammar.

3. Religious Critiques and Reform:

​ Erasmus wrote a series of works criticizing the corruptions in the Catholic Church and calling for reform. However, unlike other reformers such as Martin Luther, he did not entirely share the same views. While Erasmus advocated for the correction of the Church, he proposed a more moderate reform instead of complete separation.

4. Works:

​ One of his most famous works is "Praise of Folly" (Deliliğe Övgü), where he satirizes the absurdities in society and mocks the inconsistencies of priests and scholars. Additionally, his Latin translation of the New Testament, "Novum Testamentum," is a significant contribution.

5. Death and Legacy:

​ Erasmus died in Basel. After his death, his works were appreciated by a broad readership, and his influence persisted for a long time. As one of the pioneers of humanism and church reform, his impact extended to various regions in Europe.

​ Desiderius Erasmus was a thinker who left behind a rich and diverse intellectual legacy. His works serve as important sources for understanding the intellectual atmosphere of the Renaissance and the intellectual debates of that era.