Topics: Humanities Faith Literature

Summary: On subjects of which we know nothing, or should I say Beings, Emily Dickinson wrote in 1882, "we both believe, and disbelieve a hundred times an Hour, which keeps Believing nimble." In this lecture, we will explore the complex interplay of belief and unbelief within modern literature and the life of faith. Our focus will be on writers whose interest in Christianity was strong even though they remained conflicted about some of its most important premises and tenets. Through a discussion of Emily Dickinson, W.H. Auden, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and others, we will explore key issues of modern cultural history as well as matters of deep pastoral concern. Please note: The audio on this recording is distorted, but is the only version available.