Synopses & Reviews
This stimulating book argues that great art can function as a "secular parable"and#8212;that is, like the parables of Jesus, art can lead viewers to reflect on the reality and presence of God in the world. T. J. Gorringe examines representative secular paintings of the most significant types (mythological themes, genre painting, portraiture, landscape, still life, abstract art), showing how each type can point toward God, whether by envisaging an alternative future, creating aesthetic delight, or teaching us to see things differently. His provocative study challenges the notion that art since the 15th century has become increasingly secularized.and#160;
Gorringe gives careful consideration to each work's historical background and artistic context, as well as to art historical and critical appraisals. With an ecumenical approach, he then provides an insightful argument for how each piece can be read theologically. Although readers may sometimes disagree with his theological stance or his interpretation of specific works, his engaging commentary provokes reflection and challenges deeper questioning and awareness.
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"This is simply one of the best books ever written about Christian art."Jonathan Wright, Catholic Herald (UK) -- The New York Times
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"Magnificently illustrated and beautifully conceived . . . trenchant and even witty without being ponderous."Tracey OShaughnessy,
Republican-American -- Jonathan Wright - Catholic Herald (UK)
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Shortlisted for the 2011 ACE Mercers' International Book Award (UK Award)
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“….subtle and well-argued.”—Michael Glover, The Independent Michael Glover
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andldquo;A visually beautiful and thoughtful discussion on the frontiers of theology that deserves a wider readership than just theological professionals.andrdquo;andmdash;Rowan Williams, Times Literary Supplement (Books of the Year)
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andldquo;Earthly Visions is nothing less than an education in seeing, a re-visioning of the cosmos grasped and remade in Christ. And for that we should be profoundly grateful.andrdquo;andmdash;Jeremy Begbie, The Tablet
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“Extravagantly produced . . . demonstrate[s] the expansive importance of beauty.”—Steven Guthrie, Image International Book Award Shortlist - Art and Christianity Enquiry
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andldquo;Gorringe brings readers to a basic understanding of theological aesthetics. . . . I recommend this book for those seeking to approach theologicaland#160;aesthetics for the first time or for average museum or gallery goers.andrdquo;andmdash;Jeremy W. H. Arnold,and#160;Religious Studies Reviewand#160;
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andldquo;andhellip;.subtle and well-argued.andrdquo;andmdash;Michael Glover, The Independent
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andldquo;Extravagantly produced . . . demonstrate[s] the expansive importance of beauty.andrdquo;andmdash;Steven Guthrie,and#160;Image
Synopsis
This book offers a powerful and searching meditation on the lives of the saints and the images of them painted by Renaissance artists in Italy. Robert Kiely, a distinguished scholar of modernist literature and a historian and critic of exceptional sensibility, has a keen eye and uncanny ability to capture details of significance and to prompt the reader to look again and to see with fresh eyes that the lives of saints and the Renaissance depictions of them are anything but dull, uniform, or narrowly orthodox. His beautifully written and thoughtful book treats saints seriously as human religious figures (not icons of perfection), brought to life by great Italian paintings in dialogue with scripture, legend, and poetry.
Wise, learned, and readable, and offering a rare combination of insight into religion, literature, and art, this ravishingly illustrated and vividly written volume should be by your side whenever you pick up a classic text, look at a Renaissance painting, or spend a few moments in private meditation or prayer.
About the Author
Robert Kiely is professor emeritus of English, Harvard University. His books include The Romantic Novel in England; Beyond Egotism: The Fiction of James Joyce, Virginia Woolf and D. H. Lawrence; and Reverse Tradition, Postmodern Fiction and the Nineteenth-Century Novel.