Luther in Worms

"Here I Stand!" - Luther at the Imperial Diet of Worms

Luther arrived in Worms as part of a triumphal procession. The emperor and church officials expected him to recant his theses while at the Diet.

Luther's books were placed on a table. He was then asked if they were his works and whether he wanted to recant any of the information. Luther requested time to think over his reply and the next day he answered with the well-known speach:
"Unless I am convicted by scripture and plain reason - I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other - my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen." It is legend that Luther said the words "Here I stand. I cannot do otherwise. God help me, Amen!" These words were probably only added to make the story more interesting; to make it a 'press sensation'.

Poisonings

Some stories have been passed on about attempts to poison Luther. These attempts failed; either the Reformer recovered from them, or the recepticles with the poison fell and broke before he had a chance to drink from them...