Forgotten Females: Argula von Grumbach

by Erika Miller
Published September 26, 2023.

Argula von Grumbach is often regarded as the first female reformer for her courageous defense of the gospel in her writings. Her most famous letter, “To the University of Ingolstadt,” was published 500 years ago (1523) and established her as an influential Reformation writer. She faced much persecution because of her work but remained steadfast in her faith despite these challenges.

In 1523, Argula wrote a letter of rebuke to the University of Ingolstadt addressing their persecution of professor Arsacius Seehofer for teaching Lutheran ideas to his students. In the letter, she cited over 80 scripture references and challenged the university professors to a public debate on the matter. The university dismissed the letter because she was a woman, so she decided to publish the letter instead. The letter was received with mixed reviews and Argula became the center of much harsh ridicule, sometimes even from the pulpit. Despite this, the letter was widely circulated and went through fourteen editions in just two months. 

Due to the popularity of the publication, the university faced embarrassment as they were shown to be no more knowledgeable of scripture than a woman. Argula’s fame was unfortunately accompanied by consequences. It is rumored that her husband, Friedrich von Grumbach, was reassured by the Duke of Bavaria that there would be no legal repercussions if he should decide to murder his wife. Thankfully, he refused. Yet, he lost his job and home as a result. Not only did this cause financial distress for the family of four children, but also marital stress as Friedrich was still a Catholic. 

Argula continued to publish Reformation writings including written responses to her critics, Lutheran pamphlets, and poetry. Her outspokenness gained the attention of Martin Luther and in 1530 they met in Augsburg. The two became friends and Luther wrote to others about her courage. In 1563, Grumbach was imprisoned for distributing Protestant literature and performing burial services.

Although Grumbach’s work was highly controversial, it remains an inspiration for believers today. We should press on for the truth of the gospel and support our brothers and sisters in Christ as fearlessly as Argula did. Her courage still stands as an example for us all.

Sources:

Carr, Simonetta. “Argula von Grumbach – When the Stones Cry Out.” Place for Truth, November 20, 2018. https://www.placefortruth.org/blog/argula-von-grumbach-%E2%80%93-when-stones-cry-out.

Mark, Joshua J. “Argula von Grumbach’s To the University of Ingolstadt.” World History Encyclopedia, January 19, 2024. https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1971/argula-von-grumbachs-to-the-university-of-ingolsta/.

Christian History Institute. “Our First Woman Reformer | Christian History Magazine,” n.d. https://christianhistoryinstitute.org/magazine/article/our-first-woman-reformer.

Taylor, Caroline. “19. 1450-1600 Reformation.” The Remedial Herstory Project, November 1, 2020. https://www.remedialherstory.com/19-1450-1600-reformation.html#/.