Verbranden van de theoloog Michael Servet te Geneve 1553

This small, anonymous medal commemorates the burning of the theologian Michael Servetus in Geneva. It's a stark reminder of the intersection of religious belief, political power, and institutional authority in 16th-century Europe. The medal depicts the execution of Servetus, a Spaniard condemned for his views on the Trinity. On the reverse is an image of justice. Geneva, where Servetus was burned, was then a stronghold of Calvinism, and this event highlights the intolerance that could accompany even the most progressive movements of the Reformation. This medal shows the dark side of institutionalized religion. It reflects a society where theological dissent was not just a matter of debate, but a capital crime. Understanding this medal requires us to delve into the religious and political history of the Reformation, examining church records, theological treatises, and the biographies of key figures. It serves as a chilling reminder of the human cost of ideological conflict.