Auf der Suche nach Re/formen. Literarische Wege der Selbstlegitimation in der ›Reformatio Sigismundi‹ (1439).

This article discusses the Reformatio Sigismundi, a text written in German in 1439 during the Council of Basel. The author, who remains unknown, used the text to advocate for societal and religious reform in Christendom. The author criticized various contemporary issues, such as profiteering merchants and the behavior of Franciscan friars. The text also proposed remedies for the Holy Roman Empire's problems, including road-building and free healthcare. The article analyzes the text's use of literary techniques and historical narratives to reinforce its messaging. The author argues that the Reformatio bridged the gap between ecclesiastical councils and vernacular journalism, and its influence can be seen in later reform movements, including Martin Luther's work. While some historians may not agree with all of the author's arguments, the article provides new insights into the text and will be valuable for scholars interested in medieval and early modern reform movements, German literature, and ecclesiastical history. [Extracted from the article]