Arguing the Apocalypse: A Theory of Millennial Rhetoric - Hardcover

O'Leary, Stephen D.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0195080459 ISBN 13: 9780195080452

Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc, 1994

Synopsis

Apocalyptic expectations of Armageddon and a New Age have been a fixture of the 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 programmes. The book concludes with a critical review of the recent appearances of Doomsday scenarios in politics and culture, and a meditation on the significance of the Apocalypse in the nuclear age.

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

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 0195080459
• ISBN 13: 9780195080452
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 323