Abstract

The interpretation of Christian religion and theology is a very important aspect of Michel Foucault's work. But in theology Foucault is predominantly noticed as the thinker of the “death of the subject”, less as an thoughtful and original interpreter of Christianity. This essay presents an outline of Foucault's statements on Christianity from his early works to his later books and lectures. It especially focuses on his interpretation of the Reformation and Protestantism. The central thesis is, that reading these texts it becomes clear, that Foucault's interest is not the “death” of the subject, but the concept of the individual and its conduct of life in the modern world. Furthermore it is shown, that Reformation and Protestantism are key factors in this concept.