Electors of Saxony in Luther’s Time: Frederick the Wise
Frederick remained throughout life an adherent of the older faith who was drawn into sympathy with the reformers, likely through his connection with the university of Wittenberg.
Frederick the Wise died unmarried at Langau, near Annaberg, at his hunting lodge in Lochau on May 5, 1525. He was 63 years old. Frederick died shortly before the close of the Peasants' War, dying peacefully as he had lived. His last hours at the castle of Lochau form a striking contrast with the stormy and bloody scenes around him.
He hoped that the common people would not prevail, but admitted that they had reason to complain of harsh treatment.
"Dear children," he said to his servants, "if I have wronged any one of you, I beg you to forgive me for God's sake; we princes do many naughty things to the poor people."
Shortly before his death, he partook of the holy communion in both kinds, the only distinct Lutheran act in his life. His body was moved to Wittenberg and buried in the castle church at which Luther had posted his Ninety-Five Theses. Melanchthon delivered a Latin oration. Luther wrote letters of condolence to his brother and nephew, who succeeded him, and praised his wisdom, his kindness to his subjects, his love of justice and hatred of falsehood. Aleander, the Pope's legate at Worms, called him "the old fox of Saxony," but in history he bears the name of the Wise. His cautious reserve was the best policy for the time.
Of Frederick, whom he only knew from a distance, Luther said:
"He was a wise, intelligent, able, and good man, who hated all display and hypocrisy. He was never married. His life was pure and modest. His motto 'Tantum quantum possim' was a sign of his good sense ... . He was a fine manager and economist. He listened patiently in his council, shut his eyes, and took notes of each opinion. Then he formed his own conclusion. Such a prince is a blessing from God."
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