The book explores the contentious relationship between Church and State in the nineteenth century, highlighting how historical events have shaped ongoing debates about disestablishment. Evans delves into the complexities and conflicts that arose during this period, illustrating their relevance to contemporary discussions. Through a detailed analysis, the author reveals the enduring impact of these issues on modern society.
How did Christianity come to have such an extraordinary influence upon Europe? Beginning with the transmission of Jesus- teaching throughout the Roman world, Gillian Evans shows how Christianity transformed not only the thinking but also the structures of society, in a Christendom that was, until relatively modern times, essentially a "European" phenomenon. She traces Christianity's influence across the centuries, from its earliest days, through the East/West schism, the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, to its development in the scientific age of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and its place in the modern world. The History of Christian Europe will appeal to scholars of religion and history who are seeking a fuller understanding of how Christianity helped shape and define Europe and, consequently, the wider world.
What did people really believe in the Middle Ages? Much of our sense of the
medieval period has come down to us from the writings of the learned: the
abbots, priors, magnates, scholastic theologians and others who between them,
and across Christendom, controlled the machinery of church and state. For G R
Evans too much emphasis has been placed on a governing elite and too little on
those - the great mass of the semi-literate and illiterate, and the emergent
middle classes - who stood outside the innermost circles of ecclesiastical
power, privilege and education. Her book finally gives proper weight to the
neglected literature of demotic religion: the lives of saints; writings by
those - including lay women - who had mystical experiences; and lively texts
containing stories for popular edification. Ranging widely, from the fall of
Rome to the ideas of the Reformation, the author addresses vital topics like
the appeal of monasticism, the lure of the Crusades, the rise of the friars
and the acute crisis of heresy. As Evans reveals, medieval Christianity was
shaped above all by its promise of salvation or eternal perdition.
The lecture explores the interdisciplinary challenges in studying medieval texts, emphasizing the need to rethink how academic disciplines are structured. Gillian Evans critiques the modern tendency to compartmentalize knowledge, arguing that ancient and medieval scholars thrived in a more integrated intellectual environment. She advocates for breaking down disciplinary barriers to foster a culture of open-ended inquiry and preserve learning for its own sake, urging modern universities to embrace a more holistic approach to education and research.
Did the universe start with a bang, or has it existed always? Was there a supernatural being behind it all, or just mindless forces? The beginning of things has forever tested the limits of curiosity, and such questions have both challenged atheists and inspired believers. Ancient cultures resorted to myth and symbolism to tell vibrant stories about human origins. Later civilizations added philosophical and scientific explanations: but these are not definitive. The nature and meaning of existence - the 'why' as much as the 'how' questions - are in the end mysterious. In this lively and wide-ranging book, G R Evans explores the world's myriad creation stories against the background of the biggest question there is: what are we doing here? Discussing Swahili legends that resemble the Book of Genesis, Greek tales about the Titans, Native American, Inca and Mesopotamian mythologies, and Vedic creation cycles that begin with a cosmic egg or seed, the author surveys polytheist, monotheist and dualist ideas about supernatural power. Tracing the history of humanity as it has struggled, over many millennia, to make sense of itself, The Creation Myth will attract students of religion, history and philosophy and general readers alike.
The University of Oxford was a medieval wonder. After its foundation in the
late 12th century it designed one of Europe's most admired syllabuses for the
study of the liberal arts and theology, and attracted teachers of
international calibre and fame. This book deals with Oxford's revolutionary
events, as well as its intellectual journey.
Building on the foundations laid in its predecessor, this sequel delves deeper into the linguistic and logical frameworks of biblical texts during the Middle Ages. It explores the evolution of interpretation and the interplay between language and theology, offering insights into how these elements shaped religious thought and practice. The book aims to enhance understanding of the historical context and intellectual currents that influenced biblical scholarship in this era.
The Frontiers of Theology in the Later Twelfth Century
268 pages
10 hours of reading
Focusing on the dual role of Alan of Lille, the book explores his contributions as both a theologian and a poet during the latter half of the twelfth century. It delves into his significant influence on medieval thought and literature, highlighting his unique perspectives and the interplay between his religious and poetic works. Through this examination, the book sheds light on the cultural and intellectual landscape of the time, showcasing Alan's lasting impact on both theology and poetry.