We call the program Erasmus, which offers university students the opportunity to study and do internships at universities in the European Union countries for a certain semester. Erasmus is a good opportunity especially for students who have not left the country and are thinking of going out and who want to make new friends in new cultures. Scholarship support is provided to students participating in the program, which varies according to the countries of destination.
You have been wondering about the name Erasmus. Why did they call this exchange program Erasmus and what is the source of this name?
Desiderius Erasmus was born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands in 1465 and grew up in the turmoil and sectarian wars in Europe during the middle ages. He has also been a supporter of the humanism movement. He grew up in the Augustin sect and chose the profession of Priesthood, but he was not like the other priests. He did not wear robes and opposed the feudal nature of the church. He criticized and opposed the decisions made by the Catholic sect and their own priests. He supported Martin Luther's struggle against the Catholic priests. However, he argued that the division of the Christian community into sects would be dangerous and that one should be united. It has supported the unity and integrity of European states. He argued that science, art and culture should be given importance first and that Europe could come together in this context. He also produced many works throughout his life. His most known and famous work; is a book of praise to madness.
Erasmus, who attaches great importance to science, art and visual arts, has educated himself very well and has been one of the pioneers of the Renaissance. He became a respected person whom the priests visited. He was one of those who played a leading role in the reshaping of the corrupt Christianity in Europe.
Erasmus, who challenged the authority and the feudal structure, but did this with his pen, words and thoughts, produced many works throughout his life. His most known and famous work; It is a Praise of Folly. In this book, the mischief and cruelty experienced in his time are discussed in the style of "telling the truth with a laugh".
We must have understood the purpose and intention of Europe to call the program we call "exchange program" "Erasmus". Erasmus; In fact, it is a symbol that challenges medieval Europe, puts science and art in the foreground and advocates living in unity like human beings. Europe, which renews itself and confronts its past and takes bold steps, has become the center of culture, art and science. And it tries to spread the development together with Erasmus.