Talk one looks back to the adoption of Christianity by the Roman Empire, with the conversion of Constantine. It traces the rise of superstitious and corrupt practices in medieval times; examines the desperate need for reform and introduces some well-known reformers, such as John Wycliffe and Luther.

Talk two examines the groundwork for reform laid down by Erasmus and covers Luther's early life, from birth to his arrival at Wittenburg.

Talk three continues the story of Luther's life and the beginnings of reform. From the 95 Theses to the famous Diet of Worm, it documents his fight against corruption of Rome and the Papacy, particularly the practice of indulgences.

Talk four turns attention away from Germany, to examine the life and work of Ulrich Zwingli in Switzerland and the Anabaptists. It considers their contributions to reform and the intense, sometimes violent controversies they generated.

Talk five focuses on Geneva, the life and work of one of the best known and influential reformers, John Calvin and his famous publication The Institutes of the Christian Religion.

Talk six moves to Tudor England and considers Henry VIII's 'divorce' from Papal Rome. It examines the reforms of Thomas Cranmer under Edward VI, Mary's attempt to restore England to Catholicism and the firm establishment of a Protestant church under Elizabeth I.