Diet of Worms
Martin Luther stands before Holy Roman Emperor Charles V and the assembled princes of the Empire, defending his 95 Theses and refusing to recant his writings, despite the immense pressure to do so.
Setting
The grand hall of the Bishop's Palace in Worms, Germany, with high vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows casting colorful patterns on the stone floor. The room is filled with an assembly of princes, bishops, and nobility, all seated in a semi-circle around the central space where Martin Luther stands.
Characters
Martin Luther
primary
A middle-aged German monk with a sturdy build, standing at average height. His face is framed by a short, dark brown beard and thinning hair, with intense, deep-set eyes that reflect both conviction and weariness. His hands are calloused from years of writing and manual labor in the monastery.
Charles V
primary
A tall, imposing figure in his early twenties, with a pale complexion and a prominent Habsburg jaw. His piercing blue eyes convey both intelligence and authority. His dark brown hair is neatly trimmed, and he sports a short beard. His posture is erect, exuding regal confidence.
Archbishop of Trier
secondary
A tall, imposing figure in his late 50s with a gaunt face, deep-set eyes, and a prominent nose. His thinning gray hair is neatly trimmed, and his pale complexion contrasts with the rich fabrics of his ecclesiastical garments.
Imperial Guard
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 20s, with a stern face and a closely cropped beard. His piercing eyes scan the room constantly, alert to any potential threat. His hands rest lightly on the hilt of his sword, ready to act at a moment's notice.
German Prince
secondary
A nobleman in his early 40s, with a sturdy build and sharp features. His piercing blue eyes reflect both intelligence and a calculating nature. His neatly trimmed beard and short, dark hair are typical of German nobility of the period.
Dialog
Charles V
Herr Luther, you stand before this assembly accused of heresy. Will you now recant your writings, or do you persist in your errors?
Martin Luther
Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason—I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other—my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I can do no other. God help me.
Archbishop of Trier
This is insolence, Your Imperial Majesty! The Church's authority is not to be questioned by every monk who fancies himself a theologian.
Charles V
Silence, Archbishop. Let the man speak his conscience—though it may damn him.
Martin Luther
I seek not to divide Christendom, but to call it back to the purity of the Gospel. If my words are in error, show me from Scripture where I err.
Archbishop of Trier
The Holy Church has spoken through centuries of tradition and canon law. Your arrogance, Herr Luther, is exceeded only by your ignorance.
Charles V
Enough. This matter shall be decided by imperial decree. Guards, escort Herr Luther from this hall.