Theological Aesthetics: A Reader

Author: Gesa Elsbeth Thiessen

Key Points

Â·(-15689) Access to a wide variety of source material with additional benefit of guiding commentary from a respected scholar in the area

Â·(-15689) Covers material typical of an undergraduate course in Theological Aesthetics and so will map directly onto courses

Â·(-15689) A useful reference for academics and lecturers seeking quick answers to questions, or quotations - set out in chronological order

The Book

The study of theological aesthetics continues to increase and this textbook serves as an ideal undergraduate companion guide to such courses. The editor has carefully selected the most relevant and timely pieces to include in this comprehensive compilation of articles and extracts. A chronological organisation of the texts means coverage is from The Early Church, through to the twentieth century.

The outlook is inclusive in approach, diverse and ecumenical, taking gender and ethnicity into account, as well as reflecting the traditional approaches of the patristic period for example. Each period of discussion is introduced and contextualized by the editor, creating a valuable guide to readers new - and old - to the texts.

Contents

Preface Acknowledgement General Introduction PART I The Early Church Introduction A Divine Beauty, Purification and the Vision of God B. The Divine Artist C. Iconoclasm and Idolatry D. The Role of the Senses, Dress Codes, and Negative Views of Women

PART 2 The Medieval Church Introduction A. The Defence of Images B. Seeing God; Beauty and Goodness C. Images of God D. Praising God: Architecture, Poetry and Music

PART III: The Reformation Introduction A. The Role of Images

B. Next to the Word of God: Music C. Mystical Visions and Poetry

PART IV: Seventeenth to Nineteenth Century Introduction: A. Singing God's Praise B. Divine Beauty and the Beauty of Creation C. Feeling, Imagination and Contemplation D. Art and Aesthetics: Philosophical-Theological Perceptions

PART V: The Twentieth Century Introduction A. Art as a 'locus theologicus' B. Truth, Meaning and Art C. Imagination, Creativity and Faith D. Divine Revelation, Beauty, and the Vision of God

Reviews of Theology and Modern Irish Art by Gesa E. Thiessen