Alonso de Espina facts for kids
Alonso de Espina (born around 1410 – died after 1464) was a Spanish Franciscan friar, a preacher, and a writer. He wrote an important book called Fortalitium Fidei, which means "Fortress of Faith." This book was a guide for people to defend their Catholic beliefs against those who disagreed with them.
About Alonso de Espina
Alonso de Espina was a very smart and respected man. For many years, he was in charge of the House of Studies for the Order of Friars Minor in Salamanca, Spain. Some people used to think he had changed his religion from Judaism, but newer studies suggest this was not the case.
His Famous Book: Fortalitium
Alonso de Espina was known for his great knowledge and for being a good preacher. But his most famous achievement was writing Fortalitium Fidei.
He started writing Fortalitium in 1458 and kept adding to it until 1464. The book's title, Fortalitium Fidei, means "Fortress of Faith." It was written to help preachers and others argue against people who did not agree with Catholicism.
The book is divided into five main parts:
- The first part argues against those who did not believe in the divinity of Jesus.
- The second part was against "heretics" (people whose beliefs were different from the official church teachings).
- The third part was directed at Jews.
- The fourth part was against Muslims.
- The fifth part gave instructions on how to fight against the devil. In this section, Alonso talked about demons and their dislike for humans. He also discussed how their powers were lessened by the victory of Christ on the Cross.
Other Works
Alonso de Espina also published at least three other books:
- Sermones de Nomine Jesu Vigintiduos: This book of sermons was released around 1454.
- Sermones plures de excellentia nostræ fidei: These were sermons he preached in 1459.
- A book about fortune: This work was dedicated to John I of Castile, who lived from 1404 to 1454.
See Also
In Spanish: Alonso de Espina para niños
