The Italian Antitrinitarians

The subject of Antitrinitarianism in the Reformation is well documented. This chapter begins with an analysis of the myth of Italy as context, then turns to some key players in the theodrama, including Vermigli's own response. His aim was to simplify, so that the imitation of Christ is paramount and the ancient (Platonic) categories rendered practical. But his tracts were not intended to deny the doctrine of the Trinity, only the errors that had crept in. It is true that the Patristic categories were chiefly (Middle) Platonic, so that the concept persona in particular proves ambiguous when examined through critical modern eyes. Biandrata arrived in Geneva in 1557 and while agreeing with Gribaldi, was more conciliatory in discussion with Calvin. The unwillingness to re-open the most profound theological doctrines of the ancient church committed the Reformers to negative response to everything left-wing theologically. Keywords: Church; Italian Anti Trinittarians; Reformation; Trinity