History of religion Books

Book SynopsisKrevza’s Defense, on the Uniate side, and Kopystens’kyj’s Palinodia (1621), a defense of the Eastern Church, are perhaps the most illuminating works on the debate that culminated at the time of the Union of Brest (1596), when much of the Ruthenian ecclesiastical hierarchy declared itself in communion with the Roman Catholic Church.Trade ReviewThe publication in a clear English translation of two of the most important texts in the polemical battle between supporters and opponents of the Union [of Brest] is…most welcome. The quality of the debate admirably reflects the high standard of Uniate and Orthodox learning in the Commonwealth, with both authors showing themselves to be completely at home in the history of both Latin and Greek churches, and to be fully conversant with religious developments in western Europe. Krevza’s impassioned appeal for church unity should be recognised as a classic text of ecumenism; Kopystens’kyj’s equally scholarly reply demonstrates the difficulties faced by all who would restore the shattered fabric of the Church of the apostles. These splendid volumes will bring a neglected but important area of church history to a wider audience. -- Robert I. Frost * Ecclesiastical History *The Harvard Library of Early Ukrainian Literature is a monumental series—of original works and translations thereof into English and Ukrainian—published in commemoration of the millennium of Christianity in Rus’-Ukraine. The volumes published to date are devoted primarily to the early seventeenth century, a period of great polemical activity between adherents of the Ruthenian (Ukrainian-Belarusian) Orthodox Church on the one hand, and of the Uniate Church on the other. Part I of the volumes under discussion here combines in one book two major polemical treatises, Krevza’s Defense from the Uniate side, and Kopystens’kyj’s massive Palinodija from the Orthodox, written in response to Krevza. Part II represents a catalogue of all of the identifiable written sources referred to in them. The two books are beautifully produced, the translations excellent; the publication of these texts in English translation, together with the invaluable list of sources, will give scholars in the field of Church history a veritable treasure trove of material for further research. -- S. M. Pugh * Journal of Theological Studies *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis collection provides a rich, multilayered analysis of a long-neglected branch of early Christian apocryphal literature that examines the relationship between tradition and redaction, uses of language, and the fluid border between literary criticism and motif analysis.Trade ReviewThe fact that the chief editor and main contributor [of this book] is one of the world masters in the study of what he prefers to call 'early Christian apocryphal literature' adds to [its] authority...this book can be warmly recommended as a valuable guide to a little known and little worked area of early Christian history, literature and doctrine. -- Lionel North * Theological Book Review *The collection of essays succeeds in increasing our understanding of early Christianity in the diversity of its communities, but also in its unity...Teachers who would like to orient their students to the methodology of editing early Christian manuscripts, particularly the Apocryphal Acts of the Apostles, will find a prize in Bovon's opening essay. Also, this collection should inspire others to follow Bovon's example: turn a doctoral seminar into a publishing house. -- D. Jeffrey Bingham * Journal of Early Christian Studies *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe history and underlying ideology of pilgrimage examined, from prehistory to the middle ages.The enduring importance of pilgrimage as an expression of human longing is explored in this volume through three major themes: the antiquity of pilgrimage in what became the Christian world; the mechanisms of Christian pilgrimage(particularly in relation to the practicalities of the journey and the workings of the shrine); and the fluidity and adaptability of pilgrimage ideology. In their examination of pilgrimage as part of western culture from neolithictimes onwards, the authors make use of a range of approaches, often combining evidence from a number of sources, including anthropology, archaeology, history, folklore, margin illustrations and wall paintings; they suggest that it is the fluidity of pilgrimage ideology, combined with an adherence to supposedly traditional physical observances, which has succeeded in maintaining its relevance and retaining its identity. They also look at the ways in whichpilgrimage spilled into, or rather was part of, secular life in the middle ages. Dr JENNIE STOPFORD teaches in the Centre for Medieval Studies, University of York. Contributors: RICHARD BRADLEY, E.D. HUNT, JULIEANN SMITH, SIMON BARTON, WENDY R. CHILDS, BEN NILSON, KATHERINE J. LEWIS, DEBRA J. BIRCH, SIMON COLEMAN, JOHN ELSNER, A. M. KOLDEWEIJ.Table of Contents`Pilgrimage in Prehistoric Britain?'. - Richard Bradley `Were there Christian Pilgrims before Constantine?'. - E.D. Hunt `Sacred Journeying: Women's Correspondence and Pilgrimage in the Fourth and Eighth Centuries'. - Julie Ann Smith `Patrons, Pilgrims and the Cult of Saints in the Medieval Kingdom of Leon, Northern Spain'. - Simon Barton `Jacques de Vitry and the Ideology of Pilgrimage'. - Debra J. Birch `The Medieval Experience at the Shrine'. - Ben Nilson `The Perils, or otherwise, of Maritime Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in the Fifteenth Century'. - Wendy Childs `Pilgrimage and the Cult of St Katherine of Alexandria in Late Medieval England'. - Katherine J. Lewis `Lifting the Veil on Pilgrim Badges'. - A.M. Koldeweij `Pilgrimage to Walsingham and the Re-Invention of the Middle Ages' (with John Elsner). - Simon Coleman `Pilgrimage to Walsingham and the Re-Invention of the Middle Ages' (with Simon Coleman). - John R Elsner

Read more less

Book SynopsisRanging from Ireland to India and from the first to the third millennium, this collection brings together essays written from the perspective of gender, politics and national and cultural identities as well as the sociology of religion.Saints are more than distant figures from legends and wall paintings. Their lives and cults have been rewritten over and over again to suit changing cultural preconceptions and social and political agendas. The obscure Cambro-Breton saint Armel became a badge of loyalty to the Tudor dynasty; Eastern European countries have competed to lay claim to Cyril and Methodius, founding fathers of eastern Christianity; the Indian mystic and poet Kabir came from a Muslim background but was appropriated by both Hindus and Sikhs. And perhaps most bizarrely, right-wing groups in England march under the badge of the Middle Eastern saint George. While these ideas are familiar to historians of"popular" religion (that slippery term) in western Europe, they have a clear relevance to the study of religion in other continents and other faith traditions. Ranging from Ireland to India and from the first to the third millennium, this collection brings together essays written from the perspective of gender, politics and national and cultural identities as well as the sociology of religion. The main thrust is medieval and Christian but it also considers more recent developments in Sikh, Hindu and Muslim cults and in the heritagisation of religion. A substantial introduction offers an overview of the literature, sets out theoretical frameworks and suggests further avenues for exploration. Madeleine Gray is Professor of Ecclesiastical History at the University of South Wales. Contributors: Diane Auslander, Slavia Barlieva, Karen Casebier, Adam Coward, James M. Hegarty, Kate Helsen, Andrew Hughes, John R. Black, Madeleine Gray, Svitlana Kobets, Samantha Riches, Anne Schuchman, Jayita Sinha,Trade ReviewEach essay clearly adds to the research in its own field, and altogether make for a fascinating insight into the changing roles of saints in society. * JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS HISTORY, LITERATURE AND CULTURE *[T]he overall message from all the articles is how universal is the impetus to rewrite sanctity, to reimagine the holy men and women of the past as fitting one's contemporary vision of what a holy person should be like, so that whatever is holy now can be conceived as following in a grand old tradition. * SPECULUM *Reveal[s] the nature and impact of sainthood to be more complicated and far-reaching that has ever been acknowledged. * TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book aims to advance our understanding of household and family religion in Mediterranean and West Asian antiquity, as opposed to state-sponsored or civic temple cults. The volume explores the new recognition that religious expression associated with household, family, and domicile is significant and must be investigated in a serious way.Trade Review"While studies on the purpose and place of religion in ancient family life have been a topic of scholarly interest for some decades, this book is unique in both the scope of the papers presented and the underlying theoretical approaeh by which they are linked." (Journal of World History, December 2009) "The volume stands as a splendid landmark in opening up comparative discussion about family and domestic religion in the ancient world, and does so with an admirably wide-reaching geographical and chronological scope" (New England Classics Journal, August 2009) "This volume will find its place on the bookshelf of anyone looking for an authoritative treatment of religion and society in Mediterranean and West Asian antiquity." (The Classical Journal, August 2009) "As a collection of essays that provides insightful consideration of family or household religious life in many Near Eastern and classical cultures, it has the added benefit of offering a comparative perspective." (Catholic Biblical Quarterly, Spring 2009) "[I would] recommend the book as a worthy addition to the field of ancient religious studies and a good read for those interested in the subject." (Scholia Reviews, 2009) "The methodology of the volume is thus simultaneously contextual and comparative. An introductory essay provides a theorization of 'family,' 'household,' and 'religion' as analytical and comparative categories. A conclusion, written by the editors, offers comparative perspectives and suggests directions for future research. The individual essays provide excellent introductions to family religion in various historical periods, and would work well as introductory readings in undergraduate and graduate courses.... Recommended." (CHOICE) "[The book] offers a counterpart to text-based religion - which equates to civic, public, state religion - by analysing religious rituals, locations and objects in setting governed more by collective memory than by rules." (The Times Literary Supplement, August 2008)Table of ContentsList of Figures vii Notes on Contributors x Series Editor's Preface xiii Acknowledgments xv Map xvi 1 Introduction 1 John Bodel and Saul M. Olyan 2 Theorizing the Religion of Ancient Households and Families 5 Stanley K. Stowers 3 Family Religion in Second Millennium West Asia (Mesopotamia, Emar, Nuzi) 20 Karel van der Toorn 4 The Integration of Household and Community Religion in Ancient Syria 37 Daniel E. Fleming 5 Family, Household, and Local Religion at Late Bronze Age Ugarit 60 Theodore J. Lewis 6 Family Religion in Ancient Israel and its Surroundings 89 Rainer Albertz 7 Family Religion in Israel and the Wider Levant of the First Millennium bce 113 Saul M. Olyan 8 Household Religion, Family Religion, and Women's Religion in Ancient Israel 127 Susan Ackerman 9 Ashdod and the Material Remains of Domestic Cults in the Philistine Coastal Plain 159 Rüdiger Schmitt 10 Household Religion in Ancient Egypt 171 Robert K. Ritner 11 Household and Domestic Religion in Ancient Egypt 197 Barbara S. Lesko 12 Household Religion in Ancient Greece 210 Christopher A. Faraone 13 Family Matters: Domestic Religion in Classical Greece 229 Deborah Boedeker 14 Cicero's Minerva, Penates, and the Mother of the Lares: An Outline of Roman Domestic Religion 248 John Bodel 15 Comparative Perspectives 276 John Bodel and Saul M. Olyan Bibliography 283 Index 314

Read more less

Book SynopsisA major new introduction to the global history of Christianity, written by one of the world's leading theologians and author of numerous bestselling textbooks. Provides a truly global review by exploring the development of Christianity and related issues in Asia, Latin America and Africa, and not just focusing on Western concerns Spanning more than two millennia and combining elements of theology, history, and culture, it traces the development of all three branches of Christianity Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox providing context to Christianity's origins and its links to Judaism Looks beyond denominational history at Christianity's impact on individuals, society, politics, and intellectual thought, as well as on art, architecture, and the natural sciences Combines McGrath's acute historical sensibility with formidable organizational skill, breaking the material down into accessible, self-contained historical periods Offers an aTrade Review“As a work giving an introductory overview of historical theology and lived Christianity in a wider social and intellectual context, the work is excellent —useful for introductory orientation to specific topics (with a meticulously subdivided table of contents and subheads throughout)—and helpful for seeing longer through-lines and deeper continuities than one would see in more narrowly focused works.” (Journal of Religious History, 6 December 2015) “This book, ideal for seminarians but also for the non-professional Christian, is an incredible resource for helping Christians understand where our faith comes from, how it has developed and spread and survived as long as it has. Ultimately, this book is a great picture of the story of God working to advance his kingdom in the midst of broken humanity." (Tom-farr.blogspot.com, 1 August 2013) Table of ContentsList of Maps and Illustrations xiii How to Use This Book xv 1. The Early Church, 100–500 1 2. The Middle Ages and Renaissance, c. 500–c. 1500 71 3. Competing Visions of Reform, c. 1500–c. 1650 150 4. The Modern Age, c. 1650–1914 214 5. The Twentieth Century, 1914 to the Present 285 Where Next? 349 A Glossary of Christian Terms 351 Index 361

Read more less

Book SynopsisCovering more than 200 years of history from pre-contact to the present, this textbook places religion at the center of the history of the American West, examining the relationship between religion and the region and their influence on one another. A comprehensive examination of the relationship between religion and the American West and their influence on each other over the course of more than 200 years Discusses diverse groups of people, places, and events that played an important historical role, from organized religion and easily recognized denominations to unorganized religion and cults Provides straightforward explanations of key religious and theological terms and concepts Weaves discussion of American Indian religion throughout the text and presents it in dialogue with other groups Enriches our understanding of American history by examining key factors outside of traditional political, economic, social, and cultural domainsTable of ContentsList of Illustrations viii Acknowledgements x Introduction 1 1 Indigenous Religions in the West 8 Arctic 12 Sub-Arctic 13 Northwest Coast 16 Plains 18 Plateau 20 Great Basin 22 California 23 Southwest 24 Common Themes 27 Conclusion 29 Suggested Reading 30 2 Missions to New Worlds 32 Spain 34 France 50 Russia 60 Conclusion 66 Suggested Reading 67 3 Migrations, Manifest Destiny, and Mormons, 1803-1860 69 Transplanting Religions in the US Imperial Period 71 Protestantism 71 Roman Catholicism 80 Judaism 83 Asian religions 85 Religion and Manifest Destiny 86 Mormons and the Quest for Zion 91 The Mormon Question, 1852–1860 103 Conclusion 107 Suggested Reading 108 4 The West and Religion in the Era of the Civil War and Reconstruction, 1860-1890 109 Protestantism in the West 112 Catholicism in the West 119 Judaism in the West 124 Asian Religions in the West 127 The Mormon Question and the Mormon Answer, 1862–1890 127 American Indian Religious Experiences 135 Conclusion 150 Suggested Reading 150 5 Religion in the Modern West, 1890-1945 152 Mormonism 155 Catholicism 157 American Indians and Religion 162 Asian Religions and Influence 169 Modernism, Fundamentalism, and the Spirit of the West 172 World War I and Religion in the West 177 The Sunbelt and the Bible Belt 178 World War II and Religion in the West 188 Conclusion 189 Suggested Reading 190 6 Religion in the Cold War West, 1945-1965 192 Religious Innovation 197 Buddhism and the Beats 197 Scientology 198 Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and religion 199 The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 201 The Native American Church 206 Hispanics and Religion in the West 207 Evangelicals and the Sunbelt West 210 Conclusion 216 Suggested Reading 216 7 Creativity and Controversy after 1965 218 Immigration Reform and Asian Religions in the West 220 Religion in the Hispanic West 224 New Religious Movements 227 Religion and the Internet in the West 240 The Megachurch Boom 242 Religion in the Native West 251 Paths to the Present in Mormon Wests 254 Conclusion 258 Suggested Reading 258 Conclusion: The Frontier that Wouldn't Close 260 Index 266

Read more less

Book SynopsisNow available in a fully-revised and updated third edition, Islam: History, Religion and Politics, provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the core teachings, historical development, and contemporary public struggles of Islam. Features a new chapter on the Arab Spring and the ongoing struggles for representative governance throughout the Muslim world Includes up-to-date analysis of the civil wars in Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, including the rise of terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS Spans Islamic history from the life of Muhammad and the birth of Islamic ideals, through Islam's phenomenal geographical expansion and cultural development, to the creation of modern states and its role in today's global society Written by a leading scholar of Islamic studies Table of ContentsForeword ix Preface xi Maps xiii 1 Many Paths to One God: Establishing the Ideals 1 The Quran 1 The Quran and Other Scriptures 7 Themes of the Quran 12 The Exemplary Life of Muhammad, Prophet of Islam: The Sunna 21 The Early Muslim Community and the Pillars of Islam 24 The Successors (“Caliphs”) 27 Early Communal Disputes 29 Conclusion 31 2 The Pursuit of Knowledge in the Service of God and Humanity: The Golden Age 34 Institutions 35 Law 36 Political Structure 43 Cultural Achievements 45 Spirituality and the Mystical Tradition: Sufism 54 Conclusion 68 3 Division and Reorganization 71 The Crusades and Other Disasters 71 The Decline of the Abbasids and Rise of the Ottomans 77 Persia: The Safavid Empire 84 India and the Rise of the Mughals 87 Understanding Developments in Islamic History 95 Conclusion 99 4 Colonialism and Reform 101 Colonialism 101 The Outcome of World War I 110 The Effects of Colonialism and Themes of Islamic Reform 117 Modern Iterations of Islamic Reform and New Challenges 125 Islamist Approaches to Reform 129 Conclusion: Mainstream Islamists and Radicals 135 5 Contemporary Islam: The Challenges of Democratization and Complications of Global Politics 139 Turkey 141 Iran 144 Pakistan, Afghanistan, and al]Qaeda 154 Indonesia 166 Tunisia and the Arab Spring 168 What about Terrorism? ISIS, Boko Haram, Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and Hezbollah 173 Conclusion: Asking the Right Questions 185 Further Reading 195 Index 000

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Companion to Augustine presents a fresh collection of scholarship by leading academics with a new approach to contextualizing Augustine and his works within the multi-disciplinary field of Late Antiquity, showing Augustine as both a product of the cultural forces of his times and a cultural force in his own right.Trade Review“This companion was first published in 2012 and has now been republished in paperback. Its scope and breadth is as impressive as the list of contributors … An essential tool for any philosopher’s library.” Exegetical Tools (October 2015) “This is a successful Companionthat fills in certain lacunae in the study of Augustine and late antiquity. As such, it is more suited to scholars with specific interests than beginners looking for entry points into Augustine’s complex and sophisticated thought.” Religious Studies Review (December 2013) “This inter- and intra-disciplinary companion to Augustine gathers and presents new flavours within Augustine research, which certainly leaves us yearning for more." Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses Table of ContentsList of Figures xi Notes on Contributors xii Preface xviii Source Acknowledgments xix Abbreviations xxi The Works of Augustine xxiv Chronology of Augustine’s Life xl 1 Introduction 1Mark Vessey PART I Contexts 9 2 Political History: The Later Roman Empire 11Christopher Kelly 3 Cultural Geography: Roman North Africa 24William E. Klingshirn 4 Religious Sociology: Being Christian 40Eric Rebillard PART II Confessions 55 5 Spes Saeculi : Augustine’s Worldly Ambition and Career 57R. S. O. Tomlin 6 Love and Belonging, Loss and Betrayal in the Confessions 69Kate Cooper 7 TheConfessions as Autobiography 87Paula Fredriksen 8 Reading the Confessions 99Catherine Conybeare PART III Media 111 9 Augustine and Language 113Philip Burton 10 Augustine’s Information Circuits 125Claire Sotinel 11 Augustine and Roman Public Spectacles 138Richard Lim 12 Augustine and Books 151Guy G. Stroumsa PART IV Texts 159 13 Augustine and the Latin Classics 161Danuta Shanzer 14 Augustine and the Philosophers 175Sarah Byers 15 Augustine and the Books of the Manicheans 188Johannes van Oort 16 Augustine and Scripture 200Michael Cameron 17 Augustine and His Christian Predecessors 215Mark Edwards 18 Augustine as a Reader of His Christian Contemporaries 227Michael Stuart Williams 19 Augustine among the Writers of the Church 240Mark Vessey PART V Performances 255 20 Philosopher: Augustine in Retirement 257Gillian Clark 21 Conversationalist and Consultant: Augustine in Dialogue 270Therese Fuhrer 22 Mystic and Monk: Augustine and the Spiritual Life 284John Peter Kenney 23 Preacher: Augustine and His Congregation 297Hildegund M€uller 24 Administrator: Augustine in His Diocese 310Neil B. McLynn 25 Controversialist: Augustine in Combat 323Caroline Humfress PART VI Positions 337 26 Augustine on the Will 339James Wetzel 27 Augustine on the Body 353David G. Hunter 28 Augustine on Friendship and Orthodoxy 365Stefan Rebenich 29 Augustine on the Church (Against the Donatists) 375Alexander Evers 30 Augustine on the Statesman and the Two Cities 386Robert Dodaro 31 Augustine on Scripture and the Trinity 398Sabine MacCormack 32 Augustine on Redemption 416Lewis Ayres PART VII Aftertimes 429 33 Augustine’s Works in Circulation 431Clemens Weidmann 34 Augustine in the Latin West, 430–ca. 900 450Conrad Leyser 35 Augustine in the Western Middle Ages to the Reformation 465Eric L. Saak 36 The Reception of Augustine in Modern Philosophy 478Johannes Brachtendorf 37 Augustine and Postmodernism 492John D. Caputo 38 Envoi 505James J. O’Donnell References 517 Index 563

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe definitive compendium of Cavadini's essays on Augustine Visioning Augustine offers readers an expertly selected collection of essays exploring the text and history of the theology of Saint Augustine. Prominent scholar and essayist, John Cavadini, offers modern audiences an innovative framework for understanding Augustine, integrating articles and essays on significant texts, historical and contemporary perspectives and insights into Augustine's development as a theologian. Examining themes such as the transformation of the human will in De doctrina Christiana and Augustine's critique of philosophy in City of God, Cavadini provides clear and accessible smaller-size essays that serve as entry points for those interested in Augustinian scholarship. The author's meditations on Augustinian texts invite readers to re-evaluate their interpretations and learn about the subtle and sophisticated vocabulary of Augustine. An encounter with Augustine the Christian theologian, Cavadini contends,Trade Review“It is Cavadini’s own “rhetoric of unsettling,” which I think he has learned so well from Augustine, that brings us to these new encounters with his teacher and subject. An unsettled scholar brings an unsettled master to readers who, perhaps, may find themselves unsettled, too. Take, and read.” - Kevin L. Hughes, Journal of the American Academy of Religion, September 2020Table of ContentsAbout the Author viii Foreword by Mark Therrien ix Preface by John C. Cavadini xix Abbreviations xxiv 1 The Structure and Intention of Augustine’s De Trinitate 1 2 The Sweetness of the Word: Salvation and Rhetoric in Augustine’s De doctrina christiana 23 3 The Quest for Truth in Augustine’s De Trinitate 45 4 Augustine’s Book of Shadows 61 5 Simplifying Augustine 81 6 Feeling Right: Augustine on the Passions and Sexual Desire 110 7 The Darkest Enigma: Reconsidering the Self in Augustine’s Thought 138 8 The Sacramentality of Marriage in the Fathers 156 9 Eucharistic Exegesis in Augustine’s Confessions 184 10 Spousal Vision: A Study of Text and History in the Theology of Saint Augustine 211 11 Trinity and Apologetics in the Theology of St. Augustine 239 12 God’s Eternal Knowledge According to Augustine 285 Index 309

Read more less

Book SynopsisTable of Contents1 A History of Women in Christianity: An Introduction 1 References 8 2 Filling the Hungry with Good Things: Women in Christianity to 200 10 Named Women in the Letters of Paul 11 Jews and God-Fearing Women in Hellenistic Society 13 Women in the Pax Romana 16 Pauline Paradoxes: Defining the Body of the Christian Community 20 The Pastoral Epistles 23 Thecla, an Early Christian Superhero 24 Prophecy and Secret Knowledge: Women in Gnosticism and Montanism 26 References 29 3 From Agnes to Sant’Agnese: Women as Witnesses, 200–350 33 The Third-Century Crisis and the Transformation of the Empire 35 Martyrdom, Memory, and Place 36 Christiana sum: Women, Martyrdom, and Christian Identity 37 Martyrdom as Christian Genre Literature 39 Deaconesses, Missionaries, and Martyrs in the Provinces 40 Saints and Legends 42 Maria orans: Proclamation and Liturgy 43 The New Holy Places 45 Asceticism and the New Martyrs 47 Macrina and the Household Community 50 References 51 4 Romancing Stones: Women in Christianity, 350–500 55 Wars and Rumors of Wars 56 A Woman Alone 58 Women in Community 59 The Virgin and the Widow 61 The Ascetic Patroness 62 Everyday Saints 67 A Family of Helenas: Theodosian Women 70 References 75 5 Bridgeheads in the Early Medieval Kingdoms: Women at the Frontiers, 500–750 79 Rome Reunited? Theodora and Justinian 80 Presbyterae and Deaconesses in the Early Medieval West 82 Women in the Early Medieval Archipelago 83 A Golden Age for Women? 85 Women and Early Medieval Monasticism 86 Women and Insular Christianity 89 Gregory the Great’s Correspondents 91 Queens of the Franks 93 The Abbesses of The Ecclesiastical History of the English People 96 References 97 6 Charlemagne’s Daughters: Women, Empire, and Reform, 750–1050 101 The Rise of the Carolingians 103 Charlemagne and the World of the Carolingian Court 105 King Solomon’s Wives 108 Women and the Benedictine Reform in England 110 The Triumph of Orthodoxy: Women Saints in Byzantium 112 Ottonian Queens 114 Women and the Gregorian Reform 116 References 117 7 New Learning, Old Problems: Women and the Reformations of the Twelfth Century, 1050–1200 122 Women and the Crusades 123 Clerical Identity and Lay Enthusiasm 125 The Empress and the Anglo-Normans 126 Sunday Daughters 129 Nuns and Priests: Men and Women Together 132 The World of the Cloister: Herrad and Hildegard 134 Héloïse and Abelard 138 References 141 8 Clare and Company: The Social Mystics, 1200–1300 145 The Boom-Time and the Poor 146 The Perfect and the Inquisition 148 Embracing Poverty 150 The Confessor and the Religious Woman 151 Women and the Cistercians 153 Beguines and Penitents 157 References 164 9 The Political Visionary, 1300–1500 169 The Late Middle Ages: Crisis and Transformation 170 A Climate of Suspicion 172 Devotion in the Vernacular 173 The Angelic Speech of Bridget of Sweden 177 The Political Visionary: From Catherine of Siena to Joan of Arc 179 From Weeping to Preaching: Magdalene Spirituality 182 Sisters in a Common Life 185 References 187 10 Witness in Translation: Women in the Protestant Reformation, 1500–1600 192 Women and the Reformation 194 Women and the Town Councils197 Doctor Katharina 199 Reformation Magdalenes 200 Cuius regio: Royal Women and the Reformation 203 Italian Spirituali 204 The King’s Great Matter and the Queen’s Religion206 References 211 11 Women in the Catholic Reformation, 1500–1600 216 The Council of Trent and the Catholic Reformation 217 The Virgin and the Magdalene 218 In the Shadow of Isabella: From the Beatas to Teresa of Avila 220 “ People are people”: Caritas Pirckheimer223 English Women and the Old Religion 225 Queen Mary227 Recusant Women and the Jesuits 228 Mary and Martha: The New Catholic Orders 231 References 237 12 Conclusion 241 References 244 Index 245

Read more less

Book SynopsisA magisterial history of the centuries-long conflict between progress and tradition in the world's largest international institutionTrade Review"One of [Catholicism’s] many strengths is the confidence to range across the world from Latin America to sub-Saharan Africa. Intellectually this would be a challenge for any historian, though McGreevy effortlessly guides us with a steady hand throug" -- Enda Delaney - The Irish Times"In this appealing, easily readable and amply noted volume, McGreevy identifies phases in the development of Catholicism over the past two-and-a-half centuries with the overriding interests, themes or controversies for each period in his view… a truly engaging and substantially reliable narrative on how Catholicism has arrived at its current phase as a global Church." -- John Borelli - The Tablet"[McGreevy] does a remarkable job of explaining how the epic struggle between reformists and traditionalists has led us to the present moment in the Roman Catholic Church." -- Tim Egan - The New York Times"The power, the glory, the sin, and the sorrow—the whole Catholic saga is here, a cross-cultural story essential to modernity and to Faith itself." -- James Carroll, author of The Truth at the Heart of the Lie"In an epic about moral globalization since the French Revolution, John T. McGreevy narrates a quest for understanding and conversion, a tale of diasporas and missions. This is truly a majestic book." -- Jeremy Adelman, coauthor of Worlds Together, Worlds Apart

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Emergence of Monasticism offers a new approach to the subject, placing its development against the dynamic of both social and religious change. First study in any language to cover the formative period of medieval monasticism. Gives particular attention to the contribution of women to ascetic and monastic life. Trade Review‘An indispensable and valuable book.’ Times Literary Supplement ‘... the book succeeds admirably in making technical material accessible to the general reader.’ English Historical Review ‘The goal of this work, very successfully achieved, is a comprehensive view of monastic history ... throughout the book [Dunn] brings the reader quickly to understand a host of scholarly controversies without overburdening her text. Speculum '... a thorough reading of the major secondary studies of the past generation ... The extensive notes, substantial biliography and detailed index will be of great use.' Ecclesiastical History "This deserves to be widely recommended... a fascinating and thorough book" Morwenna Ludlow, MindTable of ContentsPreface. List of Abbreviations. 1. The Emergence of Christian Eremiticism. 2. The Development of Communal Life. 3. Women in Early Monasticism. 4. The Meaning of Asceticism. 5. The Evolution of Monasticism in the West. 6. The Rule of St Benedicts and its Italian Setting. 7. Britain and Ireland. 8. Irish peregrini and European Monasticism. 9. Monasticism and Society in the Seventh Century. Bibliography. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisContesting the Reformation provides a comprehensive survey of the most influential works in the field of Reformation studies from a comparative, cross-national, interdisciplinary perspective.Trade Review”If you need to rid yourself of this idea, a good place to start would be to read this book”. (Journal Religious History, 20 June 2014) “I have no doubt that it will find a well-deserved place on the reading lists of many an undergraduate introduction to the Reformation. I will certainly be including it in mine.” (Journal of Ecclesiastical History, 1 April 2013) “Overall, an excellent book. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-level undergraduates and above.” (Choice, 1 October 2012) Reviewed in Times Higher Educational Supplement – 5 July 2012 “This book is an invaluable resource – both a reference for students and a quick crib for teachers caught short by reading-list deadlines.” (Times Higher Education Supplement, 5 July 2012)Table of ContentsList of Abbreviations vi 1 Introduction 1 2 Defining the Reformation 8 3 Religious Life 34 4 The Anatomy of Reform 71 5 Reformation Politics 103 6 The Social Dynamics 130 7 Confessional Cultures 163 Appendix: Did Luther Post the Ninety-Five Theses ? 205 Further Reading 208 Index 220

Read more less

Book SynopsisWomen and the Reformation gathers historical materials and personal accounts to provide a comprehensive and accessible look at the status and contributions of women as leaders in the 16th century Protestant world.Trade Review"Stjerna writes in a style that will be accessible to undergraduate students, and her sophisticated analyses draw on her extensive theological training and wide reading, so that the book will be useful for more advanced students and non-specialist scholars as well." (The Journal of Ecclesiastical History, April 2010) "This work should be viewed as a very welcome teaching resource: it provides novice undergraduate students of the early modern with the means to be informed about and inspired by the Reformation, whilst offering ample resources for postgraduates to develop ideas." (Journal of Theological Studies, April 2010) "Concise descriptions summarize basic biographical information and analyze the leadership role of these women in the larger reformatory movements.... A thorough bibliography (thirty-six pages) offers wide possibilities for further reading. The book succeeds in its goal." (Religious Studies Review, December 2009) "The text is fairly described as ground breaking. An extensive bibliography and a full index are provided. The price for such an academic study is refreshingly modest." (History, October 2008)Table of ContentsAcknowledgments viii Introduction 1 The Vision and the Scope of the Book 1 The Term “Reformation” and Inclusivity Concerns 3 Visionary Studies on Women and the Reformation 5 Women in this Book 7 Part 1 Options and Visions for Women 9 1 Prophets, Visionaries, and Martyrs – Ursula Jost and her Publisher Margarethe Prüss 11 Introduction – Medieval Women Visionaries 11 Anabaptists and Martyrs 14 Prophets in Strasbourg and their Publisher Margarethe Prüss 17 Prophet Ursula Jost and her Visions 19 Conclusion 22 2 The Monastic Option – The Struggle of the Convents 23 Introduction – The Drama of Closing the Convents 23 An Excursion – Monastic Calling 24 Nuns’ Fight for Freedom 26 Conclusion 30 3 Marriage and Motherhood – The Preferred Calling 32 Introduction – Marriage Only? 32 The Holy Marital Vocation 33 Pastors’ Wives 35 Motherhood, Prostitution, Divorce 37 Conclusion 38 4 Learning and Power – An Elusive Option 40 Introduction: The Impetus and Obstacles for Theological Writing 40 Writing with and without Visions 42 The Education Factor 43 The Educated Women 46 Part 2 Women as Models, Leaders and Teachers of the Reformation 49 5 “Herr Doktor” Katharina von Bora, 1499–1552. The Lutheran Matriarch 51 Introduction 52 Katharina – From a Nun to the Ultimate Reformer’s Spouse 52 Conclusion 67 A Word about Sources and References 69 6 Argula von Grumbach, 1492 to 1563/68? – A Bavarian Apologist and a Pamphleteer 71 Introduction 72 Argula as a Defender of Faith – A Valiant Christian, or a Devilish Woman? 73 Conclusion 83 A Word about Sources and References 85 7 Elisabeth von Brandenburg, 1485–1555, and Elisabeth von Braunschweig, 1510–1558 – Exiled Mothers, Reforming Rulers 87 Introduction 88 Elisabeth von Brandenburg née Elisabeth of Denmark – A Reformer in Exile 89 Elisabeth von Braunschweig-Lüneburg (Calenberg) 96 Conclusion 107 A Word about Sources and References 108 8 Katharina Schütz Zell, 1498–1562 – A Publishing Church Mother in Strasbourg 109 Introduction 109 A Church Mother, a Pastoral Care Provider, a Writer, Even a Preacher 110 Conclusion 130 A Word about Sources and References 131 9 Marie Dentière, 1495–1561 – A Genevan Reformer and Writer 133 Introduction 133 Marie Dentière – A Feminist Reformer and Biblical Interpreteter 135 Conclusion 146 A Word about Sources and References 147 10 Marguerite de Navarre, 1492–1549, and Jeanne d’Albret, 1528–1572 – The Protectors of the French Reformers 149 Introduction 150 Marguerite d’Angoulême/de Navarre – The Illustrious Queen, Writer and Spiritual Mother 150 Jeanne d’Albret, a Protestant Queen and a Huguenot leader 158 Conclusion 173 A Word about Sources and References 174 11 Renée de France, 1510–1575 – A Friend of the Huguenots 175 Introduction 176 Renée – A French Protector of Huguenots in Italy and France 177 Conclusion 195 A Word about Sources and References 196 12 Olimpia Fulvia Morata, 1526/27–1555 – An Italian Scholar 197 Introduction 197 Olimpia Fulvia Morata, a Classicist Huguenot Teacher 199 Conclusion 210 A Word about Sources and References 212 Conclusions and Observations on Gender and the Reformation 213 Reformation and Gender, Changes and Losses 213 Individual Choices and Women’s Experiences 216 The Options for Women 217 Reformers’ Ideas about Women 219 Sola Scriptura, Education, and Legal Matters 219 Conclusion 221 Bibliography 223 Options and Visions for Women 223 Women as Models, Leaders and Teachers of the Reformation 232 Index 259

Read more less

Book SynopsisWomen and the Reformation gathers historical materials and personal accounts to provide a comprehensive and accessible look at the status and contributions of women as leaders in the 16th century Protestant world.Trade Review"Stjerna writes in a style that will be accessible to undergraduate students, and her sophisticated analyses draw on her extensive theological training and wide reading, so that the book will be useful for more advanced students and non-specialist scholars as well." (The Journal of Ecclesiastical History, April 2010) "This work should be viewed as a very welcome teaching resource: it provides novice undergraduate students of the early modern with the means to be informed about and inspired by the Reformation, whilst offering ample resources for postgraduates to develop ideas." (Journal of Theological Studies, April 2010) "Concise descriptions summarize basic biographical information and analyze the leadership role of these women in the larger reformatory movements.... A thorough bibliography (thirty-six pages) offers wide possibilities for further reading. The book succeeds in its goal." (Religious Studies Review, December 2009) "The text is fairly described as ground breaking. An extensive bibliography and a full index are provided. The price for such an academic study is refreshingly modest." (History, October 2008)Table of ContentsAcknowledgments viii Introduction 1 The Vision and the Scope of the Book 1 The Term “Reformation” and Inclusivity Concerns 3 Visionary Studies on Women and the Reformation 5 Women in this Book 7 Part 1 Options and Visions for Women 9 1 Prophets, Visionaries, and Martyrs – Ursula Jost and her Publisher Margarethe Prüss 11 Introduction – Medieval Women Visionaries 11 Anabaptists and Martyrs 14 Prophets in Strasbourg and their Publisher Margarethe Prüss 17 Prophet Ursula Jost and her Visions 19 Conclusion 22 2 The Monastic Option – The Struggle of the Convents 23 Introduction – The Drama of Closing the Convents 23 An Excursion – Monastic Calling 24 Nuns’ Fight for Freedom 26 Conclusion 30 3 Marriage and Motherhood – The Preferred Calling 32 Introduction – Marriage Only? 32 The Holy Marital Vocation 33 Pastors’ Wives 35 Motherhood, Prostitution, Divorce 37 Conclusion 38 4 Learning and Power – An Elusive Option 40 Introduction: The Impetus and Obstacles for Theological Writing 40 Writing with and without Visions 42 The Education Factor 43 The Educated Women 46 Part 2 Women as Models, Leaders and Teachers of the Reformation 49 5 “Herr Doktor” Katharina von Bora, 1499–1552. The Lutheran Matriarch 51 Introduction 52 Katharina – From a Nun to the Ultimate Reformer’s Spouse 52 Conclusion 67 A Word about Sources and References 69 6 Argula von Grumbach, 1492 to 1563/68? – A Bavarian Apologist and a Pamphleteer 71 Introduction 72 Argula as a Defender of Faith – A Valiant Christian, or a Devilish Woman? 73 Conclusion 83 A Word about Sources and References 85 7 Elisabeth von Brandenburg, 1485–1555, and Elisabeth von Braunschweig, 1510–1558 – Exiled Mothers, Reforming Rulers 87 Introduction 88 Elisabeth von Brandenburg née Elisabeth of Denmark – A Reformer in Exile 89 Elisabeth von Braunschweig-Lüneburg (Calenberg) 96 Conclusion 107 A Word about Sources and References 108 8 Katharina Schütz Zell, 1498–1562 – A Publishing Church Mother in Strasbourg 109 Introduction 109 A Church Mother, a Pastoral Care Provider, a Writer, Even a Preacher 110 Conclusion 130 A Word about Sources and References 131 9 Marie Dentière, 1495–1561 – A Genevan Reformer and Writer 133 Introduction 133 Marie Dentière – A Feminist Reformer and Biblical Interpreteter 135 Conclusion 146 A Word about Sources and References 147 10 Marguerite de Navarre, 1492–1549, and Jeanne d’Albret, 1528–1572 – The Protectors of the French Reformers 149 Introduction 150 Marguerite d’Angoulême/de Navarre – The Illustrious Queen, Writer and Spiritual Mother 150 Jeanne d’Albret, a Protestant Queen and a Huguenot leader 158 Conclusion 173 A Word about Sources and References 174 11 Renée de France, 1510–1575 – A Friend of the Huguenots 175 Introduction 176 Renée – A French Protector of Huguenots in Italy and France 177 Conclusion 195 A Word about Sources and References 196 12 Olimpia Fulvia Morata, 1526/27–1555 – An Italian Scholar 197 Introduction 197 Olimpia Fulvia Morata, a Classicist Huguenot Teacher 199 Conclusion 210 A Word about Sources and References 212 Conclusions and Observations on Gender and the Reformation 213 Reformation and Gender, Changes and Losses 213 Individual Choices and Women’s Experiences 216 The Options for Women 217 Reformers’ Ideas about Women 219 Sola Scriptura, Education, and Legal Matters 219 Conclusion 221 Bibliography 223 Options and Visions for Women 223 Women as Models, Leaders and Teachers of the Reformation 232 Index 259

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Reformation: A Brief History is a succinct and engaging introduction to the origins and history of the Protestant Reformation. A rich overview of the Reformation, skillfully blending social, political, religious and theological dimensions A clearly and engagingly written narrative which draws on the latest and best scholarship Includes the history of the Reformation in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, areas that are rarely covered in any detail The Reformation is placed in the context of the entire history of Christianity to draw out its origins, impetus, and legacy Trade Review"Appold has presented us with an introduction to Reformation history that is brief, clear, up-to-date, and blessedly free of exaggerations.... Those who take up Reformation history today should begin here." (Tom A Brady, Jr., University of California, Berkley, 1 January 2013) "Anyone interested in a brief history of Reformation theology would do well to read this book first to review the historical context of the debates surrounding [it] ... I was sorry when it came to an end. Fascinated by the brief historical account it offered, I was left wanting more. I highly recommend it." (Theology Today, 19 September 2012) "This engaging book provides a fairly thorough synthesis of much of the historical writing on this period." (Theology, 1 July 2012) "A history of the reformation, even 'a brief history' in two hundred pages? In fact, because too much detail is impossible the author turns this to advantage and is able to stand back slightly and give an overview ... A highlight is Appold's description of the indulgence controversy – the clearest and most concise I have ever read ... 'Does exactly what it says on the tin' has become rather a cliché, but a 'brief history' of the reformation is exactly what Appold provides." (Evangelical Quarterly, 2 April 2012) "Historian Appold (Princeton Theological Seminary) offers a clearly written overview of Christianity in the Reformation era that frames 16th-century events as outgrowths of a centuries-old reforming impulse, rather than a sudden religious convulsion.... The book is unique in providing an extended discussion of the spread of Lutheranism to Scandinavia, filling in a notable gap in many accounts of the Reformation, but this comes at the expense of reforms in the British Isles.... Summing Up: Recommended. Undergraduate collections." (Choice, 1 November 2011) "Anyone interested in a brief history of Reformation theology would do well to read this book first to review the historical context of the debates surrounding [it] ... I was sorry when it came to an end. Fascinated by the brief historical account it offered, I was left wanting more. I highly recommend it." (Theology Today)Table of ContentsPreface. 1 The Different Paths of Medieval Christianization. 2 The Luther Phenomenon. 3 Reformation Reforms. 4 The Reformation’s Establishment. Epilogue: The Reformation’s Legacy. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Reformation: A Brief History is a succinct and engaging introduction to the origins and history of the Protestant Reformation. A rich overview of the Reformation, skillfully blending social, political, religious and theological dimensions A clearly and engagingly written narrative which draws on the latest and best scholarship Includes the history of the Reformation in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, areas that are rarely covered in any detail The Reformation is placed in the context of the entire history of Christianity to draw out its origins, impetus, and legacy Trade Review"Appold has presented us with an introduction to Reformation history that is brief, clear, up-to-date, and blessedly free of exaggerations.... Those who take up Reformation history today should begin here." (Tom A Brady, Jr., University of California, Berkley, 1 January 2013) "Anyone interested in a brief history of Reformation theology would do well to read this book first to review the historical context of the debates surrounding [it] ... I was sorry when it came to an end. Fascinated by the brief historical account it offered, I was left wanting more. I highly recommend it." (Theology Today, 19 September 2012) "This engaging book provides a fairly thorough synthesis of much of the historical writing on this period." (Theology, 1 July 2012) "A history of the reformation, even 'a brief history' in two hundred pages? In fact, because too much detail is impossible the author turns this to advantage and is able to stand back slightly and give an overview ... A highlight is Appold's description of the indulgence controversy – the clearest and most concise I have ever read ... 'Does exactly what it says on the tin' has become rather a cliché, but a 'brief history' of the reformation is exactly what Appold provides." (Evangelical Quarterly, 2 April 2012) "Historian Appold (Princeton Theological Seminary) offers a clearly written overview of Christianity in the Reformation era that frames 16th-century events as outgrowths of a centuries-old reforming impulse, rather than a sudden religious convulsion.... The book is unique in providing an extended discussion of the spread of Lutheranism to Scandinavia, filling in a notable gap in many accounts of the Reformation, but this comes at the expense of reforms in the British Isles.... Summing Up: Recommended. Undergraduate collections." (Choice, 1 November 2011) "Anyone interested in a brief history of Reformation theology would do well to read this book first to review the historical context of the debates surrounding [it] ... I was sorry when it came to an end. Fascinated by the brief historical account it offered, I was left wanting more. I highly recommend it." (Theology Today)Table of ContentsPreface. 1. The Different Paths of Medieval Christianization. Christianity Among the Rural Poor. Two Sides of Medieval Christianization. The Rise of the Papacy: Centralization and Reform. The Papacy's Decline. The Mendicant Critique of Wealth and Property. Conclusion. Bibliography. 2. The Luther Phenomenon. Luther's "Ninety-Five Theses". Rome's Response. Luther the Reformer. Luther's Theology. Bibliography. 3. Reformation Reforms. The Politics of Reform. Zurich, Zwingli, and the Cities. Rural Revolution of the 'Common Man'. The Anabaptist Alternative. Bibliography. 4. The Reformation's Establishment. The Princes Take Charge. Reformation Beyond the Empire. Calvin and Geneva. Catholic Reform and Counter-Reformation. Bibliography. Epilogue: The Reformation's Legacy. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisProtestants: A History from Wittenberg to Pennsylvania, 1517-1740 presents a comprehensive thematic history of the rise and influence of the branches of Christianity that emerged out of the Protestant Reformation. Represents the only English language single-volume survey of the rise of early modern Protestantism from its Lutheran beginnings in Germany to its spread to America Offers a thematic approach to Protestantism by tracing its development within the social, political, and cultural context of early modern Europe Introduces innovative argument that the central dynamic of Protestantism was not its struggle with Catholicism but its own inner dynamic Breaks from traditional scholarship by arguing that the rise of Reformation Protestantism lasted at least two centuries Unites Old World and New World Protestant histories Trade Review“In this thoughtful and highly original book, Scott Dixon takes a thematic approach to the process of building the new Christian communities … Scott Dixon has done an admirable job, given the constraints of space and the breadth of his coverage, in painting a broad-ranging and sophisticated picture of a complex and expansive movement.” (EHR Oxford Journal Clippings, 6 June 2012) "Dixon's contribution lies, rather, in his fascinating and highly original thesis that the formative phase of Protestantism, as a creative social force, must be viewed as extending to the revivalist impulses of the 18th-century Great Awakening in the New World...Dixon's writing here is detailed, solid, and compelling. Summing Up: Highly recommended." (Choice, 1 May 2011) "This is a remarkable work, for its striking originality, its powerful and independent-minded synthesis, its sensitivity to the primary and secondary material, its deployment of really gripping examples and case studies, and its conjoining of the European and North American Protestant experience….”—Mark Greengrass, University of SheffieldTable of ContentsAcknowledgments. Introduction: Law and Gospel. 1. Foundations. Wittenberg and Rome. Swiss Protestants. Reformations. Geneva and Europe. 2. Kingdoms. Kings, Priests, and Prophets. Civic Protestantism. The Politics of Faith. 3. Communities. Biblical Utopias. The Pursuit of Purity. New World Protestants. 4. Dominions. Bonds of Communion. Christian Subjects. Protestant Environments. The Missionary Turn. 5. Revivals. Signs of the Times. True Christianity. The End of Reformation. Epilogue: Modern Protestants. Endnotes. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSince their beginnings in the ninth century, the shrines, brotherhoods and doctrines of the Sufis held vast influence in almost every corner of the Muslim world. Offering the first truly global account of the history of Sufism, this illuminating book traces the gradual spread and influence of Sufi Islam throughthe Middle East, Asia, Africa, and ultimately into Europe and the United States. An ideal introduction to Sufism,requiring no background knowledge of Islamic history or thought Offers the first history of Sufism as a global phenomenon,exploring itsmovement and adaptationfromthe Middle East, through Asia andAfrica, to Europe and the United States of America Covers the entire historical period of Sufism, from its ninth century origins to the end of the twentieth century Devotes equal coverage to the political, cultural,and social dimensions of Sufism as it does toits theologyand ritual Dismantles the stereTrade Review“Green has indeed fulfilled the goal he set himself, to present a ‘global history of Sufism’ … The books offers a singularly global historical-analytical perspective on Sufism and the manner in which its ideas, rituals and institutions grew out of the religious, cultural and social fabric of the Muslim world. It is therefore as welcome an addition to the upper-division Islamic studies classroom as it is to graduate seminars that focus on the history of Sufism. However, its argument reaches far wider than scholarly library and classroom: anyone interested in social psychology or anthropology as the science of the human soul and its states and the manner in which they resonate within the social milieu in which we live today will find this work of immense value.” Journal of Islamic Studies (1 September 2015) “How Green has managed this considerable feat is nearly as interesting as the contents of this engaging volume. Adequately annotated chapters encompassing four large chronological eras stretched across increasingly expansive swaths of geography represent an interesting and not entirely predictable 'periodization'.” Journal of the American Oriental Society (1 October 2014) “Green’s history is well organized and offers a number of clear themes and theses.” The Journal of The Bulletin of the School of Oriental & African Studies (1 August 2013) “A must read not only for those interested in Islamic studies but also for those interested in world history. Summing Up: Essential. Most levels/libraries.” Choice (1 September 2012) Table of ContentsList of Maps and Illustrations ix Preface and Acknowledgments xi Maps xiv Introduction 1 1 Origins, Foundations and Rivalries (850–1100) 15 2 An Islam of Saints and Brothers (1100–1400) 71 3 Empires, Frontiers and Renewers (1400–1800) 125 4 From Colonization to Globalization (1800–2000) 187 Glossary: A Sufi Lexicon of Arabic Terms 239 Further Reading 243 Index 245

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Companion to Augustine presents a fresh collection of scholarship by leading academics with a new approach to contextualizing Augustine and his works within the multi-disciplinary field of Late Antiquity, showing Augustine as both a product of the cultural forces of his times and a cultural force in his own right.Trade Review“Overall, this volume is an essential tool for any theologian’s or philosopher’s library and it will make a nice complementary volume to the Cambridge Companion to Augustine, the second volume of which was just published last year.” (Exegetical Tools, 1 October 2015) “This is a successful Companionthat fills in certain lacunae in the study of Augustine and late antiquity. As such, it is more suited to scholars with specific interests than beginners looking for entry points into Augustine’s complex and sophisticated thought.” (Religious Studies Review, 1 December 2013) “As such, this present inter-and intradisciplinary companion to Augustine gathers and presents new flavours within Augustine research, which certainly leaves us yearning for more." (Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses) “Besides an introduction by Mark Vessey, this truly impressive volume has seven parts; each of the parts has many articles by some of the finest Augustinian scholars and historians of late antiquity . . . All told, the volume is a fine contribution to Augustinian studies by some of the best scholars of the present day.” (Catholic Historical Review, 1 January 2013) “For those of us who teach Augustine on a regular basis, but who are not members of the sprawling familia of scholars who have structured their research agendas around the work of this fascinating and deeply influential late antique bishop, this volume is a treasure trove of judicious assessments and learned insights. It would not be difficult to structure a veryworthwhile seminar on the age of Augustine using its contents, particularly Parts I-V. Mark Vessey has performed an exceptional service by marshalling this legion of specialists to produce what will surely be one of the most important resources for the study of Augustine for many decades to come.” (Bryn Mawr Classical Review, 16 February 2013) “Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through rearchers/faculty.” (Choice, 1 November 2012)Table of ContentsList of Figures xi Notes on Contributors xii Preface xviii Source Acknowledgments xix Abbreviations xxi The Works of Augustine xxiv Chronology of Augustine’s Life xl 1 Introduction 1 Mark Vessey PART I Contexts 9 2 Political History 11 Christopher Kelly 3 Cultural Geography 24 William E. Klingshirn 4 Religious Sociology 40 Éric Rebillard PART II Confessions 55 5 Spes Saeculi: Augustine’s Worldly Ambition and Career 57 R. S. O. Tomlin 6 Love and Belonging, Loss and Betrayal in the Confessions 69 Kate Cooper 7 TheConfessions as Autobiography 87 Paula Fredriksen 8 Reading the Confessions 99 Catherine Conybeare PART III Media 111 9 Augustine and Language 113 Philip Burton 10 Augustine’s Information Circuits 125 Claire Sotinel 11 Augustine and Roman Public Spectacles 138 Richard Lim 12 Augustine and Books 151 Guy G. Stroumsa PART IV Texts 159 13 Augustine and the Latin Classics 161 Danuta Shanzer 14 Augustine and the Philosophers 175 Sarah Byers 15 Augustine and the Books of the Manicheans 188 Johannes van Oort 16 Augustine and Scripture 200 Michael Cameron 17 Augustine and His Christian Predecessors 215 Mark Edwards 18 Augustine as a Reader of His Christian Contemporaries 227 Michael Stuart Williams 19 Augustine among the Writers of the Church 240 Mark Vessey PART V Performances 255 20 Philosopher: Augustine in Retirement 257 Gillian Clark 21 Conversationalist and Consultant: Augustine in Dialogue 270 Therese Fuhrer 22 Mystic and Monk: Augustine and the Spiritual Life 284 John Peter Kenney 23 Preacher: Augustine and His Congregation 297 Hildegund M€uller 24 Administrator: Augustine in His Diocese 310 Neil B. McLynn 25 Controversialist: Augustine in Combat 323 Caroline Humfress PART VI Positions 337 26 Augustine on the Will 339 James Wetzel 27 Augustine on the Body 353 David G. Hunter 28 Augustine on Friendship and Orthodoxy 365 Stefan Rebenich 29 Augustine on the Church (Against the Donatists) 375 Alexander Evers 30 Augustine on the Statesman and the Two Cities 386 Robert Dodaro 31 Augustine on Scripture and the Trinity 398 Sabine MacCormack 32 Augustine on Redemption 416 Lewis Ayres PART VII Aftertimes 429 33 Augustine’s Works in Circulation 431 Clemens Weidmann 34 Augustine in the Latin West, 430–ca. 900 450 Conrad Leyser 35 Augustine in the Western Middle Ages to the Reformation 465 Eric L. Saak 36 The Reception of Augustine in Modern Philosophy 478 Johannes Brachtendorf 37 Augustine and Postmodernism 492 John D. Caputo 38 Envoi 505 James J. O’Donnell References 517 Index 563 A Companion to Augustine

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book aims to advance our understanding of household and family religion in Mediterranean and West Asian antiquity, as opposed to state-sponsored or civic temple cults. The volume explores the new recognition that religious expression associated with household, family, and domicile is significant and must be investigated in a serious way.Trade Review"While studies on the purpose and place of religion in ancient family life have been a topic of scholarly interest for some decades, this book is unique in both the scope of the papers presented and the underlying theoretical approaeh by which they are linked." (Journal of World History, December 2009) "The volume stands as a splendid landmark in opening up comparative discussion about family and domestic religion in the ancient world, and does so with an admirably wide-reaching geographical and chronological scope" (New England Classics Journal, August 2009) "This volume will find its place on the bookshelf of anyone looking for an authoritative treatment of religion and society in Mediterranean and West Asian antiquity." (The Classical Journal, August 2009) "As a collection of essays that provides insightful consideration of family or household religious life in many Near Eastern and classical cultures, it has the added benefit of offering a comparative perspective." (Catholic Biblical Quarterly, Spring 2009) "[I would] recommend the book as a worthy addition to the field of ancient religious studies and a good read for those interested in the subject." (Scholia Reviews, 2009) "The methodology of the volume is thus simultaneously contextual and comparative. An introductory essay provides a theorization of 'family,' 'household,' and 'religion' as analytical and comparative categories. A conclusion, written by the editors, offers comparative perspectives and suggests directions for future research. The individual essays provide excellent introductions to family religion in various historical periods, and would work well as introductory readings in undergraduate and graduate courses.... Recommended." (CHOICE) "[The book] offers a counterpart to text-based religion - which equates to civic, public, state religion - by analysing religious rituals, locations and objects in setting governed more by collective memory than by rules." (The Times Literary Supplement, August 2008)Table of ContentsList of Figures vii Notes on Contributors x Series Editor's Preface xiii Acknowledgments xv Map xvi 1 Introduction 1 John Bodel and Saul M. Olyan 2 Theorizing the Religion of Ancient Households and Families 5 Stanley K. Stowers 3 Family Religion in Second Millennium West Asia (Mesopotamia, Emar, Nuzi) 20 Karel van der Toorn 4 The Integration of Household and Community Religion in Ancient Syria 37 Daniel E. Fleming 5 Family, Household, and Local Religion at Late Bronze Age Ugarit 60 Theodore J. Lewis 6 Family Religion in Ancient Israel and its Surroundings 89 Rainer Albertz 7 Family Religion in Israel and the Wider Levant of the First Millennium bce 113 Saul M. Olyan 8 Household Religion, Family Religion, and Women's Religion in Ancient Israel 127 Susan Ackerman 9 Ashdod and the Material Remains of Domestic Cults in the Philistine Coastal Plain 159 Rüdiger Schmitt 10 Household Religion in Ancient Egypt 171 Robert K. Ritner 11 Household and Domestic Religion in Ancient Egypt 197 Barbara S. Lesko 12 Household Religion in Ancient Greece 210 Christopher A. Faraone 13 Family Matters: Domestic Religion in Classical Greece 229 Deborah Boedeker 14 Cicero's Minerva, Penates, and the Mother of the Lares: An Outline of Roman Domestic Religion 248 John Bodel 15 Comparative Perspectives 276 John Bodel and Saul M. Olyan Bibliography 283 Index 314

Read more less

Book SynopsisCombining seamless synthesis of original material with updated scholarship, The European Reformations 2nd edition, provides the most comprehensive and engaging textbook available on the origins and impacts of Europe''s Reformations - and the consequences that continue to resonate today. A fully revised and comprehensive edition of this popular introduction to the Reformations of the sixteenth century Includes new sections on the Catholic Reformation, the Counter Reformation, the role of women, and the Reformation in Britain Sets the origins of the movements in the context of late medieval social, economic and religious crises, carefully tracing its trajectories through the different religious groups Succeeds in weaving together religion, politics, social forces, and the influential personalities of the time, in to one compelling story Provides a variety of supplementary materials, including end-of-chapter suggestions for furthTrade Review"Derived from a lifetime of engagement with issues in Early Modern European history and written in an eminently readable style, Professor Lindberg's The European Reformations will open up to student and scholar alike the fascinating world of the sixteenth century. Not only does Lindberg place the religious movements of the time in their political and, especially, social context, but his knowledge of the theological debates provides the reader with succinct, clear explanations of the theological substance that gave rise to the great variety of the age’s ‘Reformations’." Timothy J. Wengert, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia "Carter Lindberg has written a compelling narrative regarding the emergence and development of the various ‘Reformations’ of the sixteenth century. Lindberg gives a compelling viewing of the Reformations primarily from a theological and religious perspective, in concert with others like Heiko Oberman and Brad Gregory, even as he enriches this perspective with the contributions of social historians. Lindberg does especially well in focusing on the reform of the liturgy from ‘the cult of the living in the service of the dead’ designed to free departed loved ones from Purgatory, to a form of worship that led directly to the service of the living, especially the sick, the poor, and the needy. He also shows how the reform movements were strengthened and spread by the singing of hymns and psalms by the women and men who joined these movements. This is an insightful and cogent analysis of the complex of movements we call the ‘Reformations’ of the sixteenth century." Randall Zachman, University of Notre Dame Table of ContentsList of Figures. Preface to the Second Edition. Preface to the First Edition. List of Abbreviations. 1. History, Historiography, and Interpretations of the Reformations. History and Historiography. Interpretations of the Reformations. Suggestions for Further Reading. 2. The Late Middle Ages: Threshold and Foothold of the Reformations. Agrarian Crisis, Famine, and Plague. Towns and Cities: Loci of Ideas and Change. The Printing Press. Of Mines and Militancy. Social Tensions. The Crisis of Values. The western schism. Conciliarism. Anticlericalism and the Renaissance Papacy. Suggestions for Further Reading. Electronic resources. 3. The Dawn of a New Era. Martin Luther (1483–1546). Theological and Pastoral Responses to Insecurity. Theological Implications. Indulgences: The Purchase of Paradise. The Squeaky Mouse. Politics and Piety. From the Diet of Worms to the Land of the Birds. The diet of Worms. Suggestions for Further Reading. Electronic resources. 4. Wait for No One: Implementation of Reforms in Wittenberg. In the Land of the Birds. Melanchthon: Teacher of Germany. Karlstadt and Proto-Puritanism. Bishops, Clerical Marriage, and Strategies for Reform. The Gospel and Social Order. Suggestions for Further Reading. 5. Fruits of the Fig Tree: Social Welfare and Education. Late Medieval Poor Relief. Beyond Charity. The Institutionalization of Social Welfare. Bugenhagen and the Spread of Evangelical Social Welfare. Education for Service to God and Service to the Neighbor. The Catechisms and Christian Vocation. Was the Early Reformation a Failure? Suggestions for Further Reading. 6. The Reformation of the Common Man. "Brother Andy". Thomas Müntzer. Müntzer’s Origins and Theology. Müntzer’s Historical Development. On to the Land of Hus. The Revolution of the Common Man, 1524–1526. The Role of Anticlericalism. Luther and the Peasants' War. Suggestions for Further Reading. 7. The Swiss Connection: Zwingli and the Reformation in Zurich. The Affair of the Sausages. Zwingli’s Beginnings. Magistracy and Church in Zurich. Zwingli’s Reform Program. Excursus: Medieval Sacramental Theology. The Marburg Colloquy, 1529. Suggestions for Further Reading. 8. The Sheep against the Shepherds: The Radical Reformations. The Anabaptists. Excursus: Reformation Understandings of Baptism. Zurich Beginnings. Anabaptist Multiplicity. The Münster Debacle. The Subversive Piety of the Spiritualists. Suggestions for Further Reading. 9. Augsburg 1530 to Augsburg 1555: Reforms and Politics. The Trail of Worms. The Diet of Worms. The Diet of Speyer, 1526. The Diet of Speyer, 1529. The Diet of Augsburg, 1530, and the Augsburg Confession. The Right of Resistance to the Emperor. Reformation Ecumenism, War, and the Peace of Augsburg. Suggestions for Further Reading. 10. "The Most Perfect School of Christ": The Genevan Reformation. John Calvin (1509–1564). Journey to Geneva. The Reformation in Geneva. Sojourn in Strasbourg. Geneva under Calvin, 1541–1564. Calvin’s Consolidation of his Authority. The Servetus Case. Protestant Mission and Evangelism: The "International Conspiracy". Suggestions for Further Reading. 11. Refuge in the Shadow of God’s Wings: The Reformation in France. The Shield of Humanism. Evangelical Progress and Persecution. Calvin's Influence in France. The Colloquy of Poissy, 1561. The Wars of Religion, 1562–1598. The St Bartholomew’s Day Massacre. "Paris is Worth a Mass". Suggestions for Further Reading. 12. The Blood of the Martyrs: The Reformation in the Netherlands. "La secte Lutheriane". Dissident Movements. The Rise of Calvinism and the Spanish Reaction. A Godly Society? Suggestions for Further Reading. 13. The Reformations in England and Scotland. Anticlericalism and Lutheran Beginnings. The King’s Great Matter. Passions, Politics, and Piety. Edward VI and Protestant Progress. Mary Tudor and Protestant Regress. Elizabeth I and the Via Media. Mary Stuart (1542–1587) and the Reformation in Scotland. Suggestions for Further Reading. 14. Catholic Renewal and the Counter-Reformation. Late Medieval Renewal Movements. The Index and the Inquisition. Loyola and the Society of Jesus. The Council of Trent, 1545–1563. Suggestions for Further Reading. Electronic resources. 15. Legacies of the Reformations. Confessionalization. Politics. Culture. The Reformations and Women. Toleration and the "Other". Economics, Education, and Science. Literature and the Arts. Back to the Future: The Reformations and Modernity. Suggestions for Further Reading. Electronic resources. Chronology. Genealogies. The House of Valois and Bourbon, to 1610. The family of Charles V. The English crown, 1485–1603. Ottoman sultans, 1451–1648. Popes, 1492–1605. Maps. Europe about 1500. Germany at the time of the Reformations. The Empire of Charles V. The Ottoman Empire. The Portuguese and Spanish overseas empires. Religious divisions in Europe about 1600. Glossary. Appendix: Aids to Reformation Studies. Bibliography. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn The Wiley-Blackwell History of Jews and Judaism, a team of internationally-renowned scholars offer a comprehensive and authoritative overview of Jewish life and culture, from the biblical period to contemporary times. Provides a comprehensive and authoritative overview of the main periods and themes of Jewish history, from Biblical Israel, through medieval and early modern periods, to Judaism since the Holocaust, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and Judaism today Brings together an international team of established and emerging scholars across a range of disciplines Discusses how to present Judaism - to both non-Jews and Jews - as a religious system on its own terms and with its own unique vocabulary Explores the latest scholarship on a range of issues, including folk practices, politics, economic structure, the relationship of Judaism to Christianity, and the nature of Zionism diaspora and its implications for contemporary Israel ConsiTrade Review“Consequently, this book can serve as a useful addition for undergraduates collections on Judaism and Jewish history and as an introductory guide for advanced students. Summing Up: Recommended. All levels/libraries.” (Choice, 1 December 2012) Table of ContentsNotes on Contributors ix Preface xvii Acknowledgments xix Introduction 1 Part I Ancient Israel 13 1 What Is the Hebrew Bible? 15 Frederick E. Greenspahn 2 How “Historical” Is Ancient Israel? 25 Ehud Ben Zvi 3 Priests and Levites in the Hebrew Bible 35 Stephen A. Geller 4 How Unique Was Israelite Prophecy? 53 Jonathan St€okl 5 Judaism after the Exile: The Later Books of the Bible 70 Daniel C. Snell 6 Translation: The Biblical Legacy to Judaism 83 Leonard Greenspoon Part II From Ancient Israel to Rabbinic Jewry 99 7 Jews in the Land During the Second Temple Period 101 Steven Werlin 8 Jews in Egypt: The Special Case of the Septuagint 121 Peg Kershenbaum 9 Early Christianity in a Jewish Context 142 Julie Galambush 10 The Babylonian Consolidation of Rabbinic Judaism 156 Shai Secunda Part III The Medieval World: Jews in Two Cultures 167 11 Jews in Christian Europe: Ashkenaz in the Middle Ages 169 Eva Haverkamp 12 The Jews in the Medieval Arabic-Speaking World 207 Norman (Noam) Stillman 13 Turning Point: The Spanish Expulsion 224 Jane S. Gerber 14 Medieval Jewish Mysticism 244 Hartley Lachter Part IV The Early Modern Period (Sixteenth–Eighteenth Centuries) 257 15 Judaism and Science in the Age of Discovery 259 Joseph M. Davis 16 A History of Hasidism: Origins and Developments 277 Gadi Sagiv 17 Jews and Judaism in the Early Modern New World: Central and North America 291 Dean Phillip Bell 18 The Jews of the Ottoman Empire 309 Yaron Ayalon Part V The Modern Period 325 19 How Jews Modernized: The Western Nations 327 Carsten Schapkow 20 The Zionist Movement and the Path to Statehood 343 Brian Amkraut 21 The Jews in the Land of the Russian Tsars 361 Jarrod Tanny 22 The Great Migration: 1881–1924 381 Jessica Cooperman 23 Polish Jewry between the World Wars 393 Sean Martin 24 Organized Movements of American Judaism: From 1880 to World War II 409 Michael R. Cohen 25 Paths of Modernity: Jewish Women in Central Europe 422 Kerry Wallach 26 Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hostility 441 Richard S. Levy Part VI Jews and Judaism since the Holocaust and the Birth of Israel 459 27 The Existential Crisis of the Holocaust 461 Peter Haas 28 American Jews and the Jewish State 476 David Bamberger 29 Judaism(s) in Contemporary America 489 Dana Evan Kaplan 30 Traditional Judaism in the Twenty-First Century 514 Mark I. Dunaevsky 31 Contemporary American Jewish Culture 529 Ted Merwin 32 Israeli Culture from 1948 to the Present 548 Keren Rubinstein 33 The Israeli Economy 571 Paul Rivlin 34 Ethnic Diversity in Israel 586 Ari Ariel Part VII Special Topics 601 35 The World of Jewish Music 603 Marsha Bryan Edelman 36 American Jewry’s Identification with Israel: Problems and Prospects 619 Laurence J. Silberstein 37 The Jewish Holy Days 643 Stanley Schachter Index 661

Read more less

Book SynopsisAmerican creationists' efforts to export their beliefs have succeeded in Europe beyond their own expectations, winning followers across creed and country.For decades, the creationist movement was primarily situated in the United States. Then, in the 1970s, American creationists found their ideas welcomed abroad, first in Australia and New Zealand, then in Korea, India, South Africa, Brazil, and elsewhereincluding Europe, where creationism plays an expanding role in public debates about science policy and school curricula. In this, the first comprehensive history of creationism in Europe, leading historians, philosophers, and scientists narrate the rise ofand response toscientific creationism, creation science, intelligent design, and organized antievolutionism in countries and religions throughout Europe.Providing a unique map of creationism in Europe, the authors chart the surprising history of creationist activities and strategies there. Over the past forty yeTrade ReviewOne of the more fascinating late releases in science books this year... Highly recomended. Forbes This is a fascinating book... It takes what is a uniquely American phenomena and puts it into an entirely new context. -- Kevin Winter San Francisco Book Review This first comprehensive contribution on creationism in Europe skilfully traces the threads of historiography, Philosophy, Sociology, Biology and other sciences, from the 19th century to the 21st century, focusing on the rise of a response to the creation science, intelligent design, and antievolutionism in a variety of European countries and regions... Creationism in Europe is a provocative contribution to the current European and global historiography. It offers plenty of scope for developing new ideas that European scholars could take to their own research, and use to expand or modify their own perspective. -- Dr. Harieta Mareci Sabol European Journal of Science and Theology A significant contribution toward filling a major gap in the literature... Choice This science versus the Bible debate will not go away anytime soon. This book ought to be... essential reading for anyone involved in or concerned about the issues it raises. -- Peter Costello The Irish Catholic Creationism in Europe must be on our reading lists. -- M. Ruse Science & Education As a well-edited compendium of essays in which each chapter explores the history of organized creationism (and opposition to it) in a specific country or region, Creationism in Europe is both authoritative and comprehensive. The British Journal for the History of Science Creationism in Europe marks a serious advance in the social and historical understanding of antievolutionist activism in Europe. Isis This is a fine collection of essays on an understudied topic, and will provide an essential starting point for any further research of European creationism. It is uniformly well written, accessible to the non-specialist, and makes a vital contribution to the existing scholarship. British Society for Literature and ScienceTable of ContentsForeword, by Ronald L. Numbers Acknowledgments Introduction: Creationism in Europe or European Creationism? Chapter 1. France Chapter 2. Spain and Portugal Chapter 3. United Kingdom Chapter 4. The Low Countries Chapter 5. Scandinavia Chapter 6. Germany Chapter 7. Poland Chapter 8. Greece Chapter 9. Russia and Its Neighbors Chapter 10. Turkey Chapter 11. Catholicism Chapter 12. Intelligent Design Chapter 13. The Rise of Anti-creationism in Europe Afterword: Reclaiming Science for Creationism A Note on SourcesList of Contributors Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTheir long experience in medical charity led to the creation of the first hospitals, a singular Christian contribution to health care.Trade ReviewA succinct, thoughtful, well-written, and carefully argued assessment of Christian involvement with medical matters in the first five centuries of the common era... It is to Ferngren's credit that he has opened questions and explored them so astutely. This fine work looks forward as well as backward; it invites fuller reflection of the many senses in which medicine and religion intersect and merits wide readership. Journal of the American Medical Association In this superb work of historical and conceptual scholarship, Ferngren unfolds for the reader a cultural milieu of healing practices during the early centuries of Christianity... His arguments are always compelling and usually convincing. He shows how Christians lived out their faith as a positive healing and caring witness, boldly living out their Christianity as a persuasive alternative to the failed pagan responses to fellow human beings in need. Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith Readable and widely researched... an important book for mission studies and American Catholic movements, the book posits the question of what can take its place in today's challenging religious culture. Missiology: An International Review This is an important book, for students of Christian theology who understand health and healing to be topics of theological interest, and for health care practitioners who seek a historical perspective on the development of the ethos of their vocation. Journal of Religion and Health Medical historians and historians interested in the classical age will welcome this well written book to their libraries. Medical practioners in every field with a strong interest in medical history will profit from reading it as well. Certainly, libraries at every medical university and graduate school will want this book. Doody's Review Service Well written and well researched. Catholic Insight The story that [Ferngren] tells is provocative for Christian readers who live in a culture of fear and who tremble at the thought of new pandemics. Christian Century We must be grateful for this closely argued book and the light it sheds on early Christian health care. Journal of Theological Studies Reading this book gives one the impression of discovering something new. One can see how some medical and social ideas were born, and how mutual relations between religion and medicine were developing. Religion [An] excellent and thought-provoking work. Medical History Ferngren writes in an engaging manner that will be especially attractive to physicians who do not have a background in theology or Church history. This book would be of great interest to any Christian physician or health-care professional who is interested in learning more about medicine at the time of Christ and its impact on Christianity and, perhaps more importantly, Christianity's impact on the care of the ill. Linacre Quarterly [An] excellent and thought-provoking work. -- Ildiko Csepregi Medical History A highly important investigation in medicine and healing in early Christianity. A book that every scholar of healing in early Christianity should read. Practical Matters Ferngren's approach and evidence are persuasive and a wonderful introduction to an element of early Christianity frequently overlooked, misunderstood, or both. Brethren Life and Thought A good book. Catholic Historical Review Medicine and Health Care in Early Christianity, written with deep affection for the subject, is a rich study, important for any scholar interested in the emergence and development of medicine in the Christian society of late antiquity. IsisTable of ContentsAcknowledgments1. Methods and Approaches2. The Christian Reception of Greek Medicine3. Early Christian Views of the Etiology of Disease4. Christianity as a Religion of Healing5. The Basis of Christian Medical Philanthropy6. Health Care in the Early Church7. Some Concluding ObservationsAbbreviationsNotesBibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisA path-breaking exploration of how space, place, and scale influenced the production and circulation of scientific knowledge in the nineteenth century. Over the past twenty years, scholars have increasingly questioned not just historical presumptions about the putative rise of modern science during the long nineteenth century but also the geographical contexts for and variability of science during the era. In Geographies of Knowledge, an internationally distinguished array of historians and geographers examine the spatialization of science in the period, tracing the ways in which scale and space are crucial to understanding the production, dissemination, and reception of scientific knowledge in the nineteenth century. Engaging with and extending the influential work of David Livingstone and others on science's spatial dimensions, the book touches on themes of empire, gender, religion, Darwinism, and much more. In exploring the practice of science across four continents, these essayTrade ReviewTo geographers of science and historians of science interested in space, Geographies of Knowledge will prove useful, though perhaps not paradigm shifting.—Ashanti Shih, Wellesley College, IsisWhile this volume pays tribute to the work of David Livingstone, the intention of this collection of essays is also to challenge and extend his work and to develop new understandings of the spatiality of science during the long nineteenth century.—Morag Allan Campbell, British Association for Victorian StudiesTable of ContentsContributorsPrefaceIntroduction: Thinking Geographically about Science in the Nineteenth CenturyPart I. Locale Studies1. Locating Malthus's Essay: Localism and the Construction of Social Science, 1798-18262. Revisiting Belfast: Tyndall, Science, and the Plurality of PlacePart II. National Studies3. Henry Hotze in Place: Religion, Science, Confederate Propaganda, and Race4. "Made in America": The Politics of Place in Debates over Science and Religion5. Putting the Structuralist Theory of Evolution in Its PlacePart III. Global Studies6. Science, Sites, and Situated Practice: Debating the Prime Meridian in the International Geographical Congress, 1871-19047. Illustrating Nature: Exploration, Natural History, and the Travels of Charlotte Wheeler-Cuffe in Burma8. Climate, Environment, and the Colonial Experience9. Lost in Place: Two Expeditions Gone Awry in Africa Afterword Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA retelling of American modernism through the lines of solidarity and division within and among ethnic and religious identities found in poetry. What happens if we approach the reading and writing of poetry not as an individual act, but as a public one? Answering this question challenges common assumptions about modern poetry and requires that we explore the important questions that define genre: Where is this poem situated, and how did it get there?Joshua Logan Wall's Situating Poetry studies five poets of the New York literary scene rarely considered together: James Weldon Johnson, Charles Reznikoff, Lola Ridge, Louis Zukofsky, and Robert Hayden. Charting their works and careers from 19101940, Wall illustrates how these politically marginalized writers from drastically different religious backgrounds wrestled with their status as American outsiders. These poets produced a secularized version of America in which poetry, rather than God, governed individual obligations to one anotherTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroductionPart I: Covenantal SpacesChapter 1. A Congregation of Readers: James Weldon Johnson's God's TrombonesChapter 2. Renewing the Covenant: Charles Reznikoff's RecitativePart II: Circulating ModernismChapter 3. Immigrant Publics: Lola Ridge On and Off the PageChapter 4. Louis Zukofsky and the Poetics of ExodusPart III: Limit CasesChapter 5. A Covenantal Limit Case: Robert Hayden Beyond the LyricCoda: The House We Build TogetherNotesIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisWinner of the 2012 Outreach Cross-Cultural Ministry Resource of the Year Piper guides us through the difficulties of racial sin, turning us to the gospel as our source of a common bloodline. Through Christ's blood, race and ethnicity become secondary for a common people of God.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBecoming C. S. Lewis (3-Volume Set) by Harry Lee Poe provides an in-depth look into C. S. Lewis. Each book unfolds Lewis's lifehis key relationships, his conversion to Christianity, working on his bestselling books, and more.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA history of the second-oldest Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, published in honour of its 250th anniversaryTrade Review"This is the most beautifully presented church history I have ever seen. The author team skillfully weaves together many strands of a venerable Philadelphia church: the architectural history of St. Peter's; the troubled times that divided the church during the American Revolution and Civil War; the outreach mission efforts, mostly by female parishioners, when the church was surrounded by the struggling poor of the late nineteenth century; and the stirring rebirth of the church in recent decades after it almost closed its doors. Utterly frank in discussing the church's low points as well as high points, it is a fascinating exploration of one of Philadelphia's treasures."—Gary B. Nash, Professor of History Emeritus and Director, National Center for History in the Schools, UCLATable of ContentsIntroductionForeword by (The Rev.) Ledie I. Laughlin, 20th Rector, St. Peter's ChurchSection 1: 1761-1836Chapter 1: Let the Building SpeakChapter 2: The Sacred Cause of LibertyChapter 3: A St. Peter's ContinuumSection 2: 1836-1865Chapter 4: The Churches DisunitedChapter 5: The Building EvolvesChapter 6: The Industrial City: 1836-1845Chapter 7: St. Peter's and the Oxford MovementChapter 8: Civil War Divides the CitySection 3: 1865-1911Chapter 9: St. Peter's Reaches OutChapter 10: From a Side Pew: Meditiations on the "Saints"Chapter 11: The Jewish Mission: Rev. Andrew WeinsteinSection 4: 1911-PresentChapter 12: "...No longer a Wealthy Parish"Chapter 13: The Choir School: The Gilbert YearsChapter 14: 1950-1962: Transition and RenewalChapter 15: The '70s and Beyond: Behold, I Make All Things New...Section 5: The People of St. Peter'sChapter 16: The ChurchyardChapter 17: The Rectors of St. Peter's ChurchChapter 18: Members of the CongregationChapter 19: "A House of Prayer for All People"

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow Catholic religious activism shaped the language and outcome of San Francisco''s debates about over the common good and the public interestTrade Review"[The book] restores the Catholic role in San Francisco's development through the 1960's to its rightful place in the city's history... Issel convincingly shows that Catholic institutions shaped San Francisco's history far more than is understood. And from its backing of unions, civil rights, and the needs of the very poor, the Catholic Church fulfilled its mission of working for San Francisco's greater good."--BeyondChron, March 21st 2013 "William Issel's latest book, Church and State in the City, provides an important missing chapter in the telling of the history of San Francisco... [It] is a 'must'--both for its content and its wealth of references--for any historians whose research is focused on San Francisco. It will make many readers rethink what they thought they knew about the evolution of the city politic and what place religion has played in San Francisco's social, economic, and cultural evolution."--The Institute for Historical Study Newsletter, Spring 2013 "Issel is concerned with highlighting the importance of Catholic Christianity in the political culture of 20th-century San Francisco. He accomplishes this through a critical, contextualized narrative of various issues in the city's history (1890s-1970s) in which Catholic faith-based politics contributed to defining the city's 'common good.'... Even though Issel's coverage of San Francisco's political history is not comprehensive, his narrative is densely detailed... this solid book is worth adding to California, religious, and urban collections. Summing Up: Recommended. "--Choice, May 2013Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction: City of Contests 1 "The True Interests of a City": The Public Interest in a Divided City 2 "The Need for Cooperation": The Origins of the Liberal Growth Regime 3 "No Quarter Can Be Given": Catholics, Communists, and the Construction of the Public Interest 4 "A Great Tragedy": Catholics, Communists, and the Specter of Fascism 5 "With Malice toward None": Catholic Liberalism in San Francisco 6 A "Different Era": San Francisco Women and the Pursuit of the Public Interest 7 "Humanity Is One Great Family": Jews, Catholics, and the Achievements of Racial Reform 8 "Not for ... Real Estate Values Alone": Urban Redevelopment and the Limits of Racial Reform 9 To "Alleviate Racial Concentrations": The Public Interest in Education and Employment 10 "Land Values, Human Values, and the City's Treasured Appearance": The Freeway Revolt 11 "I Came Out of the New Deal": Redefining the Public Interest, 1967-1980 Conclusion: Beyond the New Deal Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Church and Society in Hungary and in the Hungarian Diaspora, Nándor Dreisziger tells the story of Christianity in Hungary and the Hungarian diaspora from its earliest years until the present. Beginning with the arrival of Christianity in the middle Danube basin, Dreisziger follows the fortunes of the Hungarians’ churches through the troubled times of the Middle Ages, the years of Ottoman and Habsburg domination, and the turmoil of the twentieth century: wars, revolutions, foreign occupations, and totalitarian rule.Complementing this detailed history of religious life in Hungary, Dreisziger describes the fate of the churches of Hungarian minorities in countries that received territories from the old Kingdom of Hungary after the First World War. He also tells the story of the rise, halcyon days, and decline of organized religious life among Hungarian immigrants to Western Europe, the Americas, and elsewhere.The definitive guide to the dramatic hiTrade Review'Dreiszeger breaks new ground with this ambitious chronicle of the history of church life in Hungary and Hungarian communities throughout the world. This is no small feat, given the complicated shifts in Hungary's borders during 1000 plus years of turbulent history... Highly recommended.' -- C.P. Vesei Choice Magazine vol 54:05:2017Table of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction: Hungarians and Hungary through the Ages 2. Hungarians and Christianity to the Early Sixteenth Century 3. The Churches in the Ottoman and Habsburg Eras, from Reformation to Counter-Reformation 4. The Churches in an Independent Hungary, 1918-1944 5. The Churches under Nazi and Soviet Rule, 1944-1989 6. The Churches of Minority Hungarians in Romania, 1919-1990... 7. The Churches of the Hungarian Minorities in Serbia, Slovakia and Ukraine 8. The Religious Life of Hungarian Emigre Communities in Western Europe 9. The Churches of Hungarian Immigrants in the United States, 1850-2000 10. The Churches of Hungarian Immigrants to Canada in the Twentieth Century 11. Hungarian Religious Life in Latin America 12. The Hungarians' Churches in the Distant Diaspora: Australia and South Africa 13. The Churches of the Hungarians at the Turn of the Twenty-First Century 14. The Themes of Hungarian Church History: Conclusions Bibliographical Essay

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the decade beginning with the hanging of Louis Riel in 1885, a series of radical and religious conflicts shook Canada, culminating in the Manitoba school crisis of the 1890s. By 1896, the focal point of the controversy was remedialism, the attempt to have Roman Catholic school privileges in Manitoba restored by federal  action against the provincial government. The struggle over remedialism involved nearly every aspect of Canada's internal history – Conservative-Liberal, federal-provincial, east-west, French-English, Catholic-Protestant, church-state. But, illustrating as it does the complexity and sensitivity of the ground where politics and religion meet, the election of 1896 has remained particularly fascinating for the degree to which Roman Catholic church authorities, above all in Quebec, entered the political process and were involved in the struggle to power of Wilfrid Laurier.The school question and the struggle over remedialism present an illuminating

Read more less

Book SynopsisVolume 58 in the Collected Works of Erasmus series contains, for the first time, the English translation of Erasmus’ Annotations on Paul’s Epistles to the Galatians and Ephesians. Erasmus’ Annotations began as marginal comments in his own copy of the New Testament and were subsequently published in 1516 as a supplement to the Novum Instrumentum. His annotations were intended to justify his changes based on the Greek text. In each successive edition, published between 1516 and 1535, the Annotations grew in size and scope providing Erasmus with the opportunity to defend his translations in the face of growing criticism from orthodox Catholic theologians. This volume notes the editorial changes made in the five editions and also provides the reader with information about the patristic, medieval and contemporary sources consulted by Erasmus, and about the evolving relations with contemporary critics. The Annotations played Trade Review"Overall, this edition and translation of Erasmus’s commentary on two of the Pauline Epistles fully meets the exacting standards of the CWE [Collected Works of Erasmus] and carries on a worthy tradition of which Erasmus himself would be proud. " -- Eric MacPhail * Renaissance Quarterly, Vol. 71, No. 2 *Table of ContentsEditor's Note Annotations on the Epistle of Paul to the Galatians by Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam In epistolam Pauli ad Galatas annotationes des. Erasmi Rot Short-title Forms of Erasmus' Works Works Frequently Cited Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisRedrawing the Map of Early Modern English Catholicism ably demonstrates the profoundly experimental as well as recuperative character of early modern English Catholicism.Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Contributors * Introduction Lowell Gallagher PART I: SIGNPOSTS *"In Defense of Idolatry: Residual Catholic Culture and the Protestant Assault on the Sensuous in Early Modern England" Arthur F. Marotti *"'True and Perfect Relations': or, Identifying Henry Garnet and Leticia Wigington by Their Confessions" Frances E. Dolan *"Motion Rhetoric in Serial Conversion Narratives: Religion and Change in Early Modern England" Holly Crawford Pickett PART II: POETICS *"William Alabaster and the Palinode" Alison Shell *"Crashaw's Style" Richard Rambuss *"Alchemy, Repentance, and Recusant Allegory in Robert Southwell's St. Peters Complaint" Gary Kuchar *"Malengin and Mercilla, Southwell and Spenser: the Poetics of Tears and the Politics of Martyrdom in The Faerie Queene, Book 5, Canto 9" Jennifer R. Rust PART III: COMMUNITIES *"'Honest Mirth and Merriment': Christmas and Catholicism in Early Modern England" Phebe Jensen *"Uncommon Prayer? Robert Southwell's Short Rule for a Good Life and Catholic Domestic Devotion in Post-Reformation England" Susannah Monta *"to seek out some Comforts and Companions of his own kind and condition': The Benedictine Rosary Confraternity and Chapel of Cardigan House, London" Anne Dillon *"Obedience and Consent: Thomas White and English Catholicism, 1640-1660" Stefania Tutino Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisPunishment and Penance provides the first comprehensive study of an Italian bishop’s tribunal in criminal matters, such as violence, forbidden sexual activity, and offenses against the faith. Through numerous case studies, Thomas B. Deutscher investigates the scope and effectiveness of the early modern ecclesiastical legal system.Deutscher examines the records of the bishop’s tribunal of the northern Italian diocese of Novara during two distinct periods: the ambitious decades following the Council of Trent (1563–1615), and the half-century leading up to the French invasions of 1790s. As the state’s power continued to rise during this second time span, the Church was often humbled and the tribunal’s activity was much reduced. Enriched by stories drawn from the files, which often allowed the accused to speak in their own voices, Punishment and Penance provides a window into the workings of a tribunal in this period.Trade Review'One of the most fascinating elements of this study is the rich narrative about rogue priests and the seeming inability of the bishop's tribunal to curb them.' -- Christopher Carlsmith The Catholic Historical Review - vol 102:01:2016 'Thomas Deutscher also deserves credit for having cast his net widely and in a comprehensive manner... Punishment and Penance offers a broad and richly nuanced account of the full range of activities deemed inappropriate, often less spectacular than that which dominates recent micro histories but providing more of a sense of the quotidian... The University of Toronto Press is to be thanked as well for bringing out this well-executed, thoroughly satisfying study.' -- James S. Grubb Renaissance Quarterly vol 66:04:2013 'This book is a pleasant discovery... It is extremely interesting to discover that minor realities had their own autonomy and a specific development of their own peculiarities adapted to real life.' -- Elena Brizio Renaissance and Reformation vol 37:01:2014 'Deutscher's work offers a very good window onto an understudied institution that speaks directly to Reformation questions... His discussion of the diocesan court and broader religious authorities in the area is excellent.' -- Jana Byars Sixteenth Century Journal vol 46:03:2015Table of ContentsDedication Acknowledgments Map A Note on Currency Introduction Chapter 1 The Diocese of Novara and its Bishops Chapter 2 Episcopal Jurisdiction Put to the Test: Rival Ecclesiastical Courts and Confrontation with the State of Milan, 1563-1615 Chapter 3 The Bishop's Tribunal and the Disciplining of the Clergy,1563-1615 Part 1 Tribunal Objectives, Procedures, and Punishments Part 2 Tribunal Activity: the Charges against the Clergy Chapter 4 The Bishop's Tribunal and the Laity, 1563-1615 Chapter 5 Shifting Patterns of Activity: the Bishop's Tribunal, 1745-1799 Conclusion Two Phases of Tribunal Activity Appendices Abbreviations Bibliography

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Inscribed Power, Ryan D. Giles explores the function of amuletic prayers, divine names, and incantation formulas that were inscribed and printed on parchment, paper and other media, and at the same time inserted into classic literary works in Spain. Giles’ insightful analysis of the intersection between amulets and literary texts offers fresh and original interpretations of well-known texts such as the Poema de mío Cid, the Libro de Alexandre, the Libro de buen amor, Celestina, Lazarillo de Tormes, and the Buscón. Inscribed Power is a fascinating work that highlights specific amuletic texts that were used to heal, protect, or otherwise provide a blessing or curse to discover how their powers could influence fictional lives at different moments in the development of Spanish literature. Trade Review"[Inscribed Power] is, in fine, a work of vast scope and of dense but well-informed and authoritative presentations of the several ramifications of its titular theme. It contributes significantly new readings of the medieval and early modern Spanish works discussed and breaks fresh scholarly ground in doing so." -- Joseph T. Snow, Michigan State University * BSS, xcv 2018 *"Inscribed Power [is] a valuable contribution both to the study of Spanish literature and to our knowledge of magic in the Iberian Peninsula." -- Don C. Skemer, Princeton University * Speculum, vol 94 1, Jan 2019 *Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Acknowledgements Introduction Literary Amulets Chapter One Amuletic Manuscripts Chapter Two Naming God Chapter Three Amuletic Voices Chapter Four The Bawd's Amulet Chapter Five Outlaw Prayers Postscript Amuletic Afterlives Works Cited

Read more less

Book SynopsisWritten in the mid-fifteenth century, Pope Pius II’s Commentaries are the only known autobiography of a reigning pontiff and a fundamental text in the history of Renaissance humanism.In this book, Emily O’Brien positions Pius’ expansive autobiographical text within that century’s contentious debate over ecclesiastical sovereignty. Presenting the Commentaries as Pius’ response to the crisis of authority, legitimacy, and relevance that was engulfing the Renaissance papacy, she shows how the Commentaries function as both an aggressive assault on the papal monarchy’s chief opponents and a systematic defense of Pius’s own troubled pontificate and his pre-papal career. Illustrating how the language, imagery, and ideals of secular power inform Pius’ apologetic self-portrait, The Commentaries of Pope Pius II (1458–1464) and the Crisis of the Fifteenth-Century Papacy demonstrates the role that PiTrade Review'This is a valuable study that serves to remind us of the importance of deep context and a thorough examination of historical evidence, not only in studying the papacy, but throughout the discipline.' -- Jennifer Mara DeSilva Sixteenth Century Studies vol 47:02:2016 'We have to give a lot of credit to O'Brien's efforts to untangle the complex political situation under Pius... This excellent study concludes with notes, the bibliography, and the most welcome index.' -- Albrecht Classen Mediaevistik vol 29:2016 'O'Brien's book is a fascinating example of humanist history studied through the lens of politics. It is sure to stand at the center of future conversations about Pope Pius II's Commentaries for years to come.' -- Brian Jeffrey Maxson Renaissance Quarterly vol 70: 01:2017Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1. An Institution in Crisis: the Papal Monarchy on the Eve of Pius's Pontificate Chapter 2. The Conciliar Crisis in the Career of Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini and the Pontificate of Pope Pius II Chapter 3. Papal Sovereignty and the Challenge of the Princes: the Experience of Aeneas and Pius Chapter 4. Pius II and the Triumph over Conciliarism: A New Reading of the Commentaries Chapter 5. The Triumph over the Princes and the Triumph of a Prince Chapter 6. Portraits of Princes in the Portrait of Pius II Conclusion

Read more less

Book Synopsis Marprelate, Milton, Marvell, and Swift are among the best prose satirists in a remarkably rich literary era. Focusing on these key figures, ‘Betwixt Jest and Earnest’ examines the theory and practice of religious prose in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Recognizing the difficulties inherent in attempting to transform unimaginative animadversion into effective satire, it analyses the ways in which Marprelate’s tracts, Milton’s anti-prelatical satires, Marvell’s The Rehearsal Transpros’d, and Swift’s A Tale of a Tub variously resolve the decorum of religious satire. Although the study is not specifically an intellectual history or a rigid definition of religious attitudes towards jest, it does bring together basic symptoms of altering sensibilities in the period. Marprelate, Milton, Marvell, and Swift represent diverse religious dispositions, but they share a similar satiric vision. Each recognizes

Read more less

Book SynopsisDario Bullitta has embarked on a highly fascinating voyage that traces the routes of transmission of the Latin Evangelium Nicodemi text to Iceland and continental Scandinavia.Table of ContentsIllustrations Tables Acknowledgements Introduction Abbreviations 1 The Latin Evangelium Nicodemi in Medieval Europe 2 The Manuscript Tradition of Nidrstigningar saga 3 The Manuscript Filiation of Nidrstigningar saga 4 The Latin Source Text Underlying Nidrstigningar saga 5 The Textual Interpolations of Nidrstigningar saga 6 The Theological Context of Nidrstigningar saga 7 Conclusion Notes

Read more less

Book SynopsisBireley explores the anti-Machavellian tradition of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Europe and the writers who cultivated it, including Giovanni Botero and Justus Lipsius. The tradition produced an international political literature that is immensely important for understanding the Counter-Reformation, Baroque culture, and early modern politics and diplomacy. Originally published in 1990.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBetween the sixteenth and the nineteenth centuries, the west central African kingdom of Kongo practiced Christianity and actively participated in the Atlantic world as an independent, cosmopolitan realm. Drawing on an expansive set of objects, images, and documents, Cecile Fromont examines the advent of Kongo Christian visual culture and traces its development across four centuries.Trade ReviewProvides relevant information to the conversion of the Kongo Kingdom to Christianity by providing numerous visual sources to support her argument. . . . Provides previously untapped sources to bring forward a new theory on the conversion of the Kongo and the changes associated with the kingdom's new religion."" - Journal of the North Carolina Association of Historians""An impressive, ground-breaking work."" - ARLIS/NA Reviews""Fromont's study is a model of careful scholarship wedded to a well-crafted argument....This book is very likely to remain the starting point for any study of Kongo Christian art, and an important contribution to the understanding of its Christian history."" - Social Sciences and Missions""A detailed account of how the visual arts were instrumental in [the Kingdom of Kongo.]"" - Burlington Magazine""A monumental contribution to scholarship on Kongo Christianity as well as cultural change in the Atlantic world more broadly. She challenges historians to think more deeply about the way in which history can defy easy categorization as continuity or change. . . . Her beautiful prose and evocative use of language powerfully re-create the multisensory rituals of Kongo Christianity. Perhaps most important, Fromont reminds us that Africans were always active participants in their history, the legacy of which resonates across the Atlantic world today."" - William and Mary Quarterly""An indispensable look at one site of African Christianity before the advance of colonialism."" - Christianity Today""Beautifully produced and accessibly priced edition will reward the attentions of lay connoisseurs as well as of scholars in all the academic disciplines engaging Africa's past."" - African Studies Review""A valuable reference work for anyone interested in religious, Christian, and precolonial African art and material culture."" - Catholic Historical Review""Meticulously researched, beautifully written, and lavishly illustrated, The Art of Conversion is one of the best books ever published about Central African religious history."" - Journal of Interdisciplinary History

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book transforms students into English lords and commoners during the tumultuous years 1529 to 1536. At issue is the clash of four contending ideas: traditionalist Christianity, reformist Protestantism, Renaissance humanism, and Machiavellian statecraft. Depending on the outcome of this contest, the modern nation-state will or will not be born.

Read more less

Book SynopsisArgues that British imperial protestantism proved remarkably effective in advancing both the interests of empire and the cause of religion until the war for American independence disrupted it. That Revolution forced a reassessment of the role of religion in public life on both sides of the Atlantic.

Read more less