Material Spirit: Religion and Literature Intranscendent (Perspectives in Continental Philosophy)

Explore the intersection of faith, philosophy, and art with "Material Spirit: Religion and Literature Intranscendent," a thought-provoking collection of essays published by Fordham University Press in 2013. Edited by Manuel Asensi and Carl Good, this insightful book challenges traditional notions of transcendence and delves into the enduring influence of religious texts and ideas on literature, philosophy, and even contemporary issues like global climate change. Instead of seeking renewed forms of religiosity, the contributors to "Material Spirit" utilize methodologies honed through literary and artistic analysis to examine philosophical, religious, and literary works. The phrase "material spirit" serves as a crucial starting point, prompting investigations into the persistent spectral presence of religious concerns in diverse cultural expressions. This collection offers a unique perspective, venturing beyond conventional theological interpretations. It tackles a wide array of subjects, ranging from the historical context of early Christian practices to the urgent environmental concerns of our time. The essays explore religious themes and undertones in the works of renowned literary figures such as William Wordsworth, Gerard Manley Hopkins, Marcel Proust, Virginia Woolf, and Teresa of vila. Prepare to rediscover these authors through a fresh, religiously informed lens. Furthermore, "Material Spirit" engages with philosophical and para-philosophical thinkers with a critical, literary eye. Expect insightful analyses of the works of influential figures like Georges Bataille, Edmund Husserl, Jacques Derrida, and Walter Benjamin. The collection also features essays that delve into the writings of explicitly religious thinkers, including Augustine of Hippo, Franz Rosenzweig, and Bernard of Clairvaux, offering a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted relationship between religion, literature, and philosophy. Asensi and Good have curated a collection that resonates with scholars and students alike. "Material Spirit: Religion and Literature Intranscendent" stands as a testament to the evolving dialogues between seemingly disparate fields and offers a powerful framework for understanding the complex interplay between the material and the spiritual in the 21st century. This paperback edition, comprising 248 pages, is a valuable addition to the "Perspectives in Continental Philosophy" series and an essential resource for anyone interested in the critical analysis of religion's enduring presence in culture. This is a First Edition. ISBN-13: 9780823255412