Unlike Italian humanists, northern Renaissance Christian humanists, such as Erasmus, _____. broke completely from preexisting intellectual traditions focused entirely on Latin and ignored ancient Greek writings were always serious, avoiding humor and satire in their writings promoted a "philosophy of man" in their writings were more committed to seeking guidance from the Bible and religion

Eramus Catholic priest, social critic, and theologian referred as the “Prince of the Humanists” for his influential scholarship and writings entered a monastery but, left to study from Greek classics, nevertheless he believed the ideas of Christianity could be harmonized with classical studies.

He applies the critical method charachteristic of Italian humanists in regards to the Bible.

Repeteadly he stood against Church's lack of spirtiuality and for the monothonous practices that were too ceremonial and lacking real impact.

Looking back for the source was for Erasmus, the original spirit of Jesus and his preachings. He did however at the end still stand with the Pope unlike Luther.