Thesis (Ph.D.)--Boston University. / The problem of the dissertation, "The Sources of the Idea of Active Resistance in the Political Theory of John Knox," is twofold: (1) to present the major tenets of the political theory of Knox, (2) to indicate the sources of the idea of active resistance revealed in that political theory. The major portion of the study falls within the limits of the sixteenth century. Following the presentation of the major aspects of Knox's political theory, the study proceeds to the analysis of the sources of the idea of active resistance. The "atmospheric" influences of Scottish geography, topography and temperament, Lollardy, Lutheranism, and the Scottish middle-class movement are treated. The Biblical influence upon Knox is discussed in great detail. Knox relied heavily upon Old Testament precedents for his political theory. But he did not ignore the teaching of the New Testament. Knox was his own interpreter of scripture. He expected his interpretation to be accepted by all. He could make the Scriptures sanction revolution. [TRUNCATED]