When we consider this general zeal for the cultivation of the language, it is a matter of surprise that the first Bohemian grammar should not be older than A.D. 1533.  Its author was Benesh Optat, who also translated Erasmus’ Paraphrase of the New Testament.  Another grammar was published by Beneshowsky in 1577, a third by the Slovak Benedicti in 1603.  But the individual to whom is justly assigned the chief merit in regard to the language, is Weleslawin, ob. 1599, professor of history in the university of Prague, and the proprietor of the greatest printing establishment in Bohemia.  Partly by his own works, original and translated, and among these three dictionaries for different purposes; partly by the encouragement he gave to other writers, and the activity with which he caused works whether old or new deserving of a greater circulation, to be printed; he acquired a most powerful influence among his cotemporaries.

The field however which was cultivated with the most diligence, was that of theology; and fortunately, during this whole period, with an equal measure of talent and zeal.  The writings of the Bohemian Brethren, Thomas Prelavsky, Laurentius Krasonicky, and more especially of Lucas, belong partly to the former, partly to the present period.  The latter was a most productive writer; and as being one of their best scholars, he was generally chosen to answer the charges made against the United Brethren, in learned and elaborate pamphlets.[31] Several of the productions of the Brethren, mentioned in the former period, were written and printed in the beginning of this.  Among these in 1508, Procopius’ question.  “Whether it is right for a Christian to compel infidels or heretics to embrace the true faith?” is remarkable, as one of the earliest instances in which this position of intolerance was made the subject of public debate, or at least answered in the negative.  In 1563 the New Testament was first translated directly from the Greek, by J. Blahoslav, another president of the Bohemian Brethren, a man of profound erudition.  The first translation of the whole Bible from the original languages, did not take place until several years later.  The first edition of this latter splendid work, for which the patriotic and pious baron John of Zherotin expressly founded a printing office in his castle of Kralicz in Moravia, and advanced money for all the necessary expenses, was printed in 1579.  This version is still considered, in respect to language, as a model; and in respect to typography, as unsurpassed.  On the fidelity of the translation and the value of the commentary, Schaffarik remarks, that “they contain a great deal of that which, two hundred years later, the learned coryphaei of exegesis in our day have exhibited to the world as their own profound discoveries.”  The translators were Albert Nicolai, Lucas Helic, Joh.  Aeneas, George Stryc, E. Coepolla, J. Ephraim, P. Jessenius, and J. Capito.—­G.  Stryc wrote also a good translation of the Psalms in rhyme,