WI: Erasmus as Pope

So I've seen a lot of different threads about Martin Luther being Pope. As far as I can tell, it's an idea that's batted around a lot but no one can really decide if it's plausible enough. That gave me an idea, though. As far as I've read, Desiderius Erasmus was at least a somewhat popular theologian who, when the Reformation rolled around, remained loyal to the Church while continuing to advocate reform.

So, is it possible to see him become Pope? If so, how does this happen, and what are the consequences?
 
Not knowing a lot about the subject one would assume that the POD needed for this would mean things were going rather badly for the establishment in the Catholic Church and they would turn to Erasmus as a way of stopping the oncoming reformation tide.

Or possibly, and here's an idea I haven't seen a lot on this site, what if the reformation goes internal so no separate Catholic and Protestant sects just one more reformed church and We can call it the Age of Erasmus.
 
Possible? Yes. Plausible? Only w/a series of PODs during early adulthood that reshape his views on Religious Orders, sharpen is denunciation of heretical (eg. Luther's) theological views, dull his enthusiasm for Scriptural Criticism. He also must not become such an outspoken critic of supposed Church excesses.

Now, if by some unlikely course of events Erasmus is elected pope, w/his theological & intellectual views intact, his papacy would be stormy and frustrating. It may also be brief as doubtless some cardinals opposed to him would be plotting his demise from almost day one.
 
Top