In this insightful work, Vincent Evener explores the intersection of theology and identity in sixteenth-century Germany. The study examines how the suffering and passion of Christ were not merely theological concepts, but central forces that moulded the way individuals understood themselves and their relationship with God. By analysing historical sources from the Reformation era, the book provides a comprehensive look at how medieval piety evolved into the distinct Christian selves of the early modern period. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and religious mechanisms that defined the German experience during a time of immense spiritual transition. This academic study is an essential resource for those interested in the history of the Reformation, the development of Christian devotion, and the psychological impact of religious belief on early modern society. Through meticulous research, Evener invites you to reflect on how deeply the story of the cross has historically informed the way human beings define their own existence within the community of faith.