Walter Benjamin and the Bible - Hardcover

Britt, Brian M.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0826408796 ISBN 13: 9780826408792

Publisher: Continuum Intl Pub Group, 1996

Synopsis

This book follows the theme of sacred text from Benjamin's early writings on religion, Judaism, and language to the study of Baroque tragedy, modernism, history, and the Paris Arcades. All of these writings reflect a commentary on the idea of the sacred text in Western culture.

About this title

About the Author:

Brian Britt is Assistant Professor of Religion, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

From Booklist:

Britt's lucid and accessible exploration of the category of sacred text in Walter Benjamin's work is an important addition to the already sizable body of critical literature devoted to Benjamin's writing. Returning the subject of "sacred text" to view is itself a service to biblical scholars and others in religious studies concerned with the scriptural function of texts--whether "sacred" or not. Britt sees Benjamin as an ally in moving beyond the dichotomy between externalist, historical-critical concepts of sacred texts and internalist, confessional ones. Beyond that dichotomy lies the real world task of regaining "pure language," not reducing language to an instrument for transferring information but for encountering the world in every word. The idea of sacred text, Britt maintains, runs through Benjamin's writings--and if Benjamin was right, it runs through the world. Readers unfamiliar with Benjamin will find this a delightfully clear introduction to his work; those who know his work will find a new appreciation for the theology with which it is saturated. Steve Schroeder

About this edition

• Publisher: Continuum Intl Pub Group
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0826408796
• ISBN 13: 9780826408792
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 156