I understand what you are saying, but I don't think that protestants study the Bible more because they have to in order to catch up with Catholics understanding. Protestants tend do a pretty good job of education, be it in Biblical History, Church History, etc; from a young age just like the Catholics. I think you would be surprised at how much Church history many of us know, I have a several dozen books on the subject and spend a lot of time discussing it with my friends (many of which are Catholic, and I feel I can at least hold my own).
We historically have put more emphasis on the need for personal study of the Bible (though you all are catching up). One of the first laws governing the Anglican church (and still in effect) is that a Bible in the vernacular had to be available at all times at all places of worship to anyone who wanted access. At time time the Catholic hierarchy wasn't particularly thrilled about these translations... the reformation actually brought about some positive changes in the RCC as well.
I certainly don't mean to attack Catholics here, the purpose of my post is entirely to defend us protestants. There are some clear and important doctrinal issues between protestants and Catholics; but I don't think these stem from a lack of education on either side.
As for you other point; you are absolutely correct. It is very important to have a historical background for any study of the Bible. I actually attend a very good study that touches on that at the local Catholic church. (I'm a very active member of my local Episcopal church, but try to do my own part towards ecumenicalism).
-paridel
As you, I was not attacking Protestants. My main point was that children from the 1st through 8th grade, within the Catholic schools, are taught Biblical history every day. At least that’s the way it use to be. Then they will go to Mass every Sunday. So basically, they get seven days a week of instruction. This may be the reason that Catholics don’t really study the Bible, as adults, as much as Protestants.....I don’t know.
You mention different translations. I believe this makes it more important to study Biblical History. Understand the people of the times, not just the Bible. I find it interesting that we can pick up any Bible and compare it to others and they can be totally different. More reason to study Biblical History. But, that being said, it’s what’s in your mind and heart that really counts. If you listen to those two items, you’ll never go wrong, whether Protestant or Catholic.