Chapter 1 Hussite Eschatological Texts (1412–1421): Introduction and Translations
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Abstract
It is arguable that, in the long history of Western apocalyptic thought, the radical Hussites represent a unique turning point which may be summarised as “revolutionary apocalypticism”. Whether or not we accept this thesis, the Hussite Revolution still represents an important moment in the history of one of the most persistent symbolic forms of religious existence. As such, it is a point of interest relevant not only to the field of history, but also theology, political science, and philosophy, among others. This collection of eight texts, therefore, aims to help fill a significant gap in the study of both a historical moment, and a religio-political form of thought. Although they are mostly published and well-known by Hussite specialists, they have been difficult to access outside of this small circle of scholars due to the barriers posed by language and/or by the rarity of the publications containing them. In addition, the notes and introduction aim to provide a historical and intellectual context, and address certain historiographic issues like dating and authorship, with reference to specialised literature.