Arguing the Apocalypse: A Theory of Millennial Rhetoric - Softcover

O'Leary, Stephen D.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0195121252 ISBN 13: 9780195121254

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1998

Synopsis

Apocalyptic expectations of Armageddon and a New Age have been a fixture of the American cultural landscape for centuries. With the approach of the year 2000, such millennial visions seem once again to be increasing in popularity. Stephen O'Leary sheds new light on the age-old phenomenon of the End of the Age by proposing a rhetorical explanation for the appeal of millennialism. Using examples of apocalyptic argument from ancient to modern times, O'Leary identifies the recurring patterns in apocalyptic texts and movements and shows how and why the Christian Apocalypse has been used to support a variety of political stances and programs. The book concludes with a critical review of the recent appearances of doomsday scenarios in our politics and culture, and a meditation on the significance of the Apocalypse in the nuclear age. Arguing the Apocalypse is the most thorough examination of its subject to date: a study of a neglected chapter of our religious and cultural history, a guide to the politics of Armageddon, and a map of millennial consciousness.

About this title

Review

O'Leary's learned work ... opens a variety of issues which will need to be taken into account in future apocalyptic studies. Theology

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0195121252
• ISBN 13: 9780195121254
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 330