Combines new interpretations which emphasise the importance of popular response, belief and practice with the traditional approach to the origins and progress of the Reformation in Germany and Switzerland. Avoiding a Luther-centred view, it gives equal attention to other important figures as well as the political dimensions of the Reformation and elements of social protest. ... [I]t focuses on the longer-term success or failure of the implementation of the Reformation and includes many original documents translated here for the first time from previously unpublished archival sources.--From publisher description.