Abstract
The article takes note of various late medieval figures of whom Luther spoke highly, but concentrates mainly on Jan Hus as the one whom the Reformer occupied himself with most intensively from his youth to his old age. On the basis of a chronological and systematic presentation of the relevant statements by Luther, the article shows that his view of Hus was not without criticism, but from the moment that the Reformer realised the similarity between his case and that of Hus this view remained highly positive until the end.
Above all, it helped Luther to define his own place in history. This reflection on the historical figure soon became enhanced by contacts with the contemporary upholders of the Hussite legacy; this was most long-lasting and most positive with the Bohemian Brethren.
Most of the time it was the latter who received ideas from Luther, whom they sometimes led to understand new problems because of the insufficient clarity of their positions; however, it is possible to see a positive influence from their side in the case of the distinction between the doctrine of transubstantiation and the conviction of the real presence of Christ in the sacramental feast.