Luther,
then, must be remembered as the greatest educator of his time for two
reasons.

1. _He gave the German people a language by his translation of the Holy
Scriptures._

2. _He laid the foundation of the German common school system._

=Luther's Pedagogy.=--1. Parents are responsible for the education of
their children.

2. It is the duty of the State to require regular attendance at school
of every child, and the parents must be held accountable for
non-attendance.

3. Religion is the foundation of all school instruction.

4. Every child must learn not only the ordinary subjects taught at
school, but also the practical duties of life,--boys, a trade; girls,
housework.

5. Every clergyman must have pedagogical training and experience in
teaching before entering upon a pastorate.[55]

6. The teacher must be trained, and in that training singing is
included.

7. Children must be taught according to nature's laws,--the knowledge of
the thing must precede its name.

8. Due respect should be shown to the office of teacher, and by example
and precept every teacher should be worthy of respect.

9. His course of study included Latin and Greek, history, mathematics,
singing, and physical training, besides religion.

10. Every school should have a library.

11. It is the inherent right of every child to be educated, and the
State must provide the means to that end.

The principles above stated are fundamental in the German school systems
of the present time. Religious instruction, trained teachers, compulsory
and universal education, are the central principles of the schools of
Germany and of many other nations. Luther could not give his chief
attention to education, but with deep insight he saw the necessity of
it, and laid the foundations upon which later generations have built a
marvelous structure, true to the design of its architect.

MELANCHTHON (1497-1560)

Philipp Melanchthon was the friend, colaborer, and adviser of Luther.
Luther was a resolute, energetic, impulsive man; Melanchthon was quiet,
reserved, and conciliating. There is no doubt that these two men of
such opposite dispositions exerted a salutary influence upon each
other,--Luther stimulated and encouraged Melanchthon; Melanchthon
checked and restrained Luther. It is certain that each was helpful to
the other, and that the great cause of the Reformation, to which they
mutually consecrated themselves, was furthered by their friendship