Discuss the influence of John Calvin on the English Reformation.

John Calvin significantly influenced the English Reformation through his theological writings and the spread of Calvinist doctrines.

John Calvin, a French theologian and pastor, was one of the central figures of the Protestant Reformation. His teachings and writings, particularly his seminal work, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," had a profound influence on the English Reformation. Although he never set foot in England, his ideas found fertile ground there, shaping the religious landscape and influencing the development of Protestantism.

Calvin's theology, known as Calvinism, emphasised the sovereignty of God, the authority of the Scriptures, and the necessity of grace through faith in Christ. His doctrines of predestination and election, which suggested that God had preordained some for salvation and others for damnation, were particularly influential. These ideas were radical and controversial, challenging the prevailing Catholic doctrine and providing a theological basis for the Reformation.

Calvin's influence on the English Reformation was not immediate but became more apparent as his ideas spread. His writings were widely circulated in England, translated into English and disseminated among the literate classes. They were read by key figures of the English Reformation, including Thomas Cranmer, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and John Knox, the founder of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. These men, among others, were instrumental in incorporating Calvinist doctrines into the Church of England and the wider English religious landscape.

Moreover, Calvin's influence extended beyond theology to church governance. He advocated for a presbyterian form of church government, where elders elected by the congregation would govern alongside ministers. This model was adopted by the Church of Scotland and influenced the Puritan movement in England, which sought further reformation of the Church of England along Calvinist lines.

However, it's important to note that Calvin's influence was not universally accepted. His doctrines were contentious and met with resistance from both Catholic and Protestant factions. The Church of England, while incorporating some Calvinist ideas, maintained a distinct identity, blending elements of Catholic tradition with Protestant theology.

In conclusion, John Calvin had a significant influence on the English Reformation. His theological writings and doctrines shaped the development of Protestantism in England, influencing key figures and informing the religious and political debates of the time. His impact, however, was complex and contested, reflecting the diverse and turbulent nature of the Reformation period.