The Rhetoric of the Reformation (T & T Clark Academic Paperbacks) - Softcover

Matheson, Peter

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0567082385 ISBN 13: 9780567082381

Publisher: T & T Clark International, 2004

Synopsis

Peter Matheson has written the first study in English of the Reformation as a literary phenomenon. This book traces the first emergence of a 'public opinion' in European history. Using insights from social history, religion and literature, Professor Matheson explores the connection between the 'communal Reformation' and the outpouring of pamphlets in the early 1520's. These pamphlets helped create a dynamic and subversive network of communication where language and structure were of equal importance. He also examines the relative strengths of polemical and dialogical approaches in winning adherents, the motivations of the authors, and the expectations of audiences.

About this title

Review:

'..the book is a valuable addition to any university reading list, an excellent 'way in' to the literature of the Reformation for a wide range of scholars and students.' Alan Ford, University of Durham, Reviews in Religion and Theology'Peter Matheson has succeeded in giving us an imaginative look into the complex, intricate and varied world of Reformation pamphlet literature. He discusses with urbanity and wit topics ranging from the centrality of rhetoric, the appropriateness of the term 'propoganda', the legitimacy and limits of polemic, and some brave attempts at dialogue and mediation. This is all done in a lively, engaging manner which is appropriate, indeed, evocative of the subject.' Gordon L. Isaac, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, The Sixteenth Century Journal'...often insightful and always provocative...this sensitive and appreciative analysis of how polemic worked for sixteenth-century reformers will be appreciated by specialists concerned with communication theory and practice in early modern Europe.' Robert Kolb, Religious Studies Review'[an] attractively written book...eminently suitable for student use, while also providing stimulating reading for professional historians.' Immo Meenken, University of Trier, German Historical Institute London Bulletin'Certain sections are excellent, such as the description of the intellectual background of Reformation rhetoric in the introduction, and the first chapter, entitled "The Emergence of Public Opinion." In a brilliant expose, Matheson presents the complex development of the intellectual history of the Reformation and describes the dimensions of its reception during the 1520s as a "web of public opinion..". This is an eminently readable book, written in a lively style.' Birgit Stolt, Lutheran Quarterly'A great strength of the book is Matheson's ability to make wise and penetrating observation. He has a gift for the telling phrase. He offers not merely a study of rhet

About the Author:

The Revd Professor Peter Matheson is Principal of Theological Hall, Melbourne.

About this edition

• Publisher: T & T Clark International
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0567082385
• ISBN 13: 9780567082381
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 278