Lollard

The Lollards were a religious movement that emerged in England in the late 14th century. Their ideas were largely inspired by the teachings of John Wycliffe, an English theologian and philosopher. The Lollards advocated for a number of reforms within the Catholic Church, emphasizing the authority of the Bible over that of the Pope and clergy. They promoted the translation of the Bible into English, so that ordinary people could read and interpret scripture for themselves.

Key Lollard beliefs included the rejection of transubstantiation, the doctrine that the bread and wine of the Eucharist literally become the body and blood of Christ. They also questioned the necessity of priestly confession and indulgences. Lollards often engaged in public preaching and distributed their writings, which gained a following among both the lower and some educated classes.

The movement faced significant opposition from the established Church and the English crown. Archbishop Thomas Arundel was particularly instrumental in suppressing Lollard activity. In 1401, the De Haeretico Comburendo act, or the "Burning of Heretics" act, was passed, making heresy punishable by death by burning. This led to the persecution and execution of many Lollards. Despite this repression, Lollard ideas persisted underground and are considered a precursor to the Protestant Reformation.