Harvey's view of Austria-Hungary

Hello, I'm William Harvey, but you can just call me Doctor Harvey. I'm an English physician, and I accurately described the circulation of blood in the human body. Austria-Hungary does not rank high on my list of favorite countries, partly because not much science comes from there. I do not intend to visit the country, as I would not have many fellow scientists to converse with. I do, however, favor it over countries like France, the home of Jean Riolan, a major critic of my work who has attacked me verbally on many occasions.

Brahe's View of Austria-Hungary

Hello, my name is Tycho Brahe. I am very fond of the region of Austria-Hungary. My dear friend and student, Johannes Kepler, has lived and taught in Austria for much of his life. He has told me great things about the country. Although I was born in Denmark, I currently spend most of my time in the Holy Roman Empire, where I have been named the court's "Imperial Mathematicus". I have learned a great deal about Austria-Hungary during my time in the HRE. In particular, the rulers of Austria are becoming more and more enlightened as time passes. I hope that they will find my work in astronomy interesting. Just recently, I have made fascinating observations about a new star. I have noticed that Austria-Hungary is somewhat lacking in influential thinkers. It would be great if my findings could inspire future scientists from the Austria region! I consider myself to be the "Father of the Modern Laboratory", and I truly hope that others will agree and build upon the foundations I've built.
Sincerely,
Tycho Brahe

Kant's View of Austria-Hungary

I, Immanuel Kant, am the father of modern philosophy. Unfortunately, Austria-Hungary has not shown much progression in the philosophical field. Most philosphers come from France and England. Austria-Hungary needs to get moving towards the Enlightenment. Also, I usually promote thinking autonomously and without external authority. However, Austria-Hungary shows a strong sense of authoritative power, especially with Maria Theresa of the Hapsburgs.

Enlightenment in Austria-Hungary

Although Austria-Hungary did not produce an abundance of the much celebrated thinkers, the Enlightenment still played a huge role in the country. The two sons of Maria Theresa, Joseph and Leopold, were major supporters of enlightened absolutism. First, they sought to eliminate serfdom throughout the nation. Additionally, they were firm believers in religious toleration and worked hard to stop persecution. All of their reforms had beneficial effects on the people of Austria-Hungary. Emperor Joseph is quoted as saying, "Everything for the people, nothing by the people." This statement shows that Joseph, unlike many other rulers of the day, truly cared about the people he ruled over. He wanted to help them, not oppress them. Therefore, the Enlightenment influenced several leaders from Austria-Hungary and positively affected the lives of the common people.

A Quick Summary of Other Rulers

Ferdinand II - a member of the Hapsburg family. He decreased the power of the "Bohemian Estates", who were the main representatives in Bohemia. After the Reformation, he took land from wealthy Protestants and gave it to Catholics. This act sparked much controversy throughout the Kingdom. (reigned from 1619-1637)

Ferdinand III - centralized control over most of the German states. He was the first to establish a permanent German army. (reign 1637-1657)


(Works cited for all my entries:
http://www.gwleibniz.com/britannica_pages/emp_ferdinand_i/emp_ferdinand_i.html
http://www.graz.net/
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/wittenberg/luther/web/ninetyfive.html)

Travel Destination

Welcome to the tour of Graz, Austria! The city of Graz is rich in history and is always full of excitement. The Hapsburg rulers have named this city to be the second-capital of Austria. It is situated in a great location - for trade, scenery, defense, etc. The City of Graz is basically a microcosm of the Protestant Reformation. The architecture of the buildings show either Protestant or Catholic influence. Some of the buildings were built by Protestants, including the famous Landhaus (town hall). Other buildings were built in retaliation by the Hapsburgs and the Counter-Reformers (such as the University building). In fact, it became a "competition" between the two religions to see who could build the most impressive buildings. As you know, Catholicism eventually became the dominant religion in Graz. At this time, Graz is the main residential city for the Hapsburg leaders. The palace they live in, known as Schloss Eggenberg, is open for tourists to view. Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see how the royal family lives! Other important people, such as the scientist Kepler, live in Graz, as well.

A Member of the Clergy

Dear journal,

The strangest thing has just occurred! I have received word that a fellow clergy member, Martin Luther, has posted a document of 95 Theses on the doors of the Church in Wittenburg. Although I live in the Kingdom of Hungary - far away from Wittenburg - detailed news of this event has arrived with stunning speed (which tells me that this event is extremely important). I have been told that these 95 Theses protest Church policies - most notably the sale of indulgences. I am unsure as to how the Empire will respond to this act. To be honest, Luther is a strange man, but he is already quite popular among the German Princes. It is possible that he might acquire a large following! Emperor Charles V and the rest of the Hapsburg family will be somewhat opposed to Luther because the Hapsburgs are devoutly Catholic. Also, the Pope might condemn Luther as a heretic and put him on trial! I will not be too surprised if Luther is excommunicated from the Church altogether! Even if he is excommunicated, however, his loyal Princes will be able to look after him and hide him from the Pope's men. I am excited to see the reaction to Luther's 95 Theses, but it does no good for me to keep guessing. After all, only time will tell.

1546
Buda, Hungary