Here’s a breakdown of why Martin Luther likely would have advocated for changes to Michelangelo’s “The Fall and Expulsion from the Garden of Eden”:

Luther’s Theological Views:

• Emphasis on Grace: Luther emphasized salvation by grace alone, through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through good works or the veneration of saints and religious imagery.
• Focus on Scripture: Luther believed the Bible was the sole source of religious authority and might have criticized artistic interpretations that deviated from his literal interpretation of scripture.
• Rejection of Indulgences: Luther rejected the practice of selling indulgences (pardons for sins) which the Catholic Church used to finance projects like St. Peter’s Basilica, where Michelangelo’s work resides.

Michelangelo’s Artwork:

• Nudity: The depiction of nude figures, particularly Eve, might have been considered inappropriate by Luther, who believed in the importance of modesty and the shame associated with the Fall.
• Focus on Beauty: The artistic beauty and focus on human figures might have been seen by Luther as distracting from the core message of sin and redemption.
• Lack of Emphasis on Grace: The artwork doesn’t explicitly portray the concept of grace, which was central to Luther’s theology.

Arguments for Change:

• Distraction from Scripture: Luther might have argued that the beauty and focus on human figures diverted attention from the scriptural account of the Fall.
• Promoting Immorality: The nudity could be seen as promoting sinful thoughts or desires.
• Misrepresenting Salvation: The lack of emphasis on grace might not align with Luther’s core beliefs about salvation.

Possible Modifications:

• Clothing the Figures: Adding clothing to Adam and Eve could address concerns about nudity.
• Shifting Focus: The artwork could be altered to emphasize the angel’s role as God’s instrument of expulsion, highlighting the consequences of sin.
• Adding Symbolic Elements: Incorporating symbols of God’s grace or redemption, such as a cross or dove, could be a more subtle approach.

Important Caveats:

• It’s impossible to know for certain how Luther would have reacted to the artwork.
• Michelangelo completed the Sistine Chapel ceiling before the full extent of the Reformation was known.
• Artistic merit and historical significance would likely be considered in any potential modifications.

In conclusion, based on Luther’s theological views, it’s highly likely he would have advocated for changes to Michelangelo’s “The Fall and Expulsion from the Garden of Eden” due to its focus on beauty, lack of emphasis on grace, and depiction of nudity.