About the Author

Preserved Smith (1880-1941), the translator and editor, was a prominent historian of Christianity who taught at Amherst College, Harvard University, and Cornell University. He was the author of 'The Life and Letters of Martin Luther'; 'The Age of the Reformation'; 'Erasmus: A Study of His Life, Ideals, and Place in History'; 'The Great Renewal 1543-1687'; and 'The Enlightenment, 1687-1776.'