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Erasmus was the leading Humanist scholar of his time, despite his humble beginnings. The illegitimate son of a priest, Erasmus was ordained in 1492 and studied in Paris, before travelling to England in 1499 where he met Colet.
Back in Europe, he travelled from capital to capital, lecturing and writing while preparing new humanist editions of the Scriptures, stressing toleration, man's inherent dignity and the practical problems of living as a good Christian. Fame followed, and he returned to England, becoming friends with More (among others) and teaching at Cambridge.
He continued to write, with sarcasm but also humour and sincerity, attacking church corruption, affirming man's free will and rejecting Luther's determinist doctrines. A moderate critic of the church, he refused to join the Protestants, favouring reconciliation.
He published many popular works including: Adages; Handbook of Christian Soldier; and In Praise of Folly.
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