A modern translation directly from the original manuscript of Hegel's youthful Thesis defense at the University of Tübingen in 1793. Written in Latin, German and Schwabish, this is the first manuscript published by Hegel (published with several other co-defendants). The latin "De Ecclesiae Wirtembergicae renascentis calamitatibus" translates to "On the Calamities of the Renaissance of the Württemberg Church", or "On the Calamities of the Resurgent Württemberg Church" or sometimes "On the Prospects for Reform in Württemberg".

In June 1793, Hegel and Hölderlin had to defend the work of the then chancellor of the University of Tübingen with seven other students of the Tübingen monastery in order to be admitted to the theological consistorial examination in autumn 1793. This is the only publication in which both names appear together. He helped write this manuscript while still a young seminary student at Tübingen, marking one of his earliest political writings. The text emerged from the specific context of proposed reforms to the Lutheran church in Württemberg, his home region. This work, though sometimes overlooked in discussions of Hegel's development, provides fascinating insights into his early political and religious thought before he developed his mature philosophical system.

Hegel's historical thesis analysing the development and dysfunction of the Reformation focuses on the significant role of Joannes Brentius (John Brenz) and his contributions to the theological and doctrinal development of the Württemberg Church during the Reformation. Brentius, a key Lutheran reformer, was instrumental in solidifying Lutheran doctrine through his works, including his commentary on Exodus, which interpreted Old Testament events as prefigurations of Christ and his Gospel. His efforts at the University of Tübingen introduced novel methods of theological instruction, emphasizing scriptural authority and practical applications of faith. Under his guidance, the Württemberg Church adopted Brentian formulas, reinforcing Lutheran orthodoxy while promoting discipline and reform.

Duke Ulrich of Württemberg played a pivotal role in the church's transformation, leveraging his authority to abolish Catholic influences and establish Lutheran practices. Collaborating with theologians like Brentius and Philip Melanchthon, Ulrich fostered institutional reforms that aligned education and ecclesiastical governance with evangelical principles. Significant events include the adoption of the Smalcald Articles, efforts to counteract heresies, and the integration of Protestant teachings into public and clerical life. The establishment of theological education at Tübingen further cemented the church's intellectual foundation, although after Melanchton died, this Protestant cohesion completely crumbled.

In the broader context of Hegel's intellectual development, this essay helps bridge the gap between his seminary education and his later philosophical work. It shows him already grappling with questions about how institutions evolve and reform themselves, themes that would become central to his mature social and political philosophy. The text also reflects the influence of Enlightenment thinking on the young Hegel, particularly in its criticism of religious institutions, while simultaneously showing his appreciation for the historical role of such institutions in social life - a tension that would remain productive throughout his career.