Erasmus On Christianity, War, And Soldiers

The Dutch humanist Desiderius Erasmus (c.1466-1536) was one of the most prolific writers in history. In a letter written in 1515, Erasmus explained that he wrote in order to serve 'some useful purpose.' One of the most useful purposes of Erasmus's writings is the insight he gives on war and peace. The things that Erasmus said regarding war and peace are profound and highly relevant. I have recorded from the Collected Works of Erasmus what I consider to be the most significant things he said about war and peace and organized them as follows: Erasmus on the Evils of War Erasmus on Christianity and War Erasmus on the Wickedness of Soldiers Erasmus on the Just War Erasmus never wavered from his conviction that war was evil and un-Christian, and he didn't think too highly of soldiers.