A Brief History of Heaven - Paperback

by Alister E. McGrath (Author)

This engaging book by one of today's best-known Christian writers explores the history of heaven, from its origins in biblical writings to its most recent representations.

• A short, accessible book on the history of heaven.
• Draws together representations of heaven by a wide range of writers, theologians, politicians and artists.
• Covers literary works such as Dante's Divine Comedy, Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, and the poems of George Herbert.
• Considers discussions by Marx and Freud of heaven's role in society.
• Based on serious scholarship but is ideal for the non-specialist who wants to learn more about the idea of heaven.
• Alister E. McGrath is one of today's best-known Christian writers.

Back Jacket

The concept of heaven has had an enormous impact on popular culture in the west, both religious and secular. So where does the idea come from? How did it develop? And how has it shaped western culture?

This engaging and highly accessible book by one of today's best-known Christian writers explores the history of heaven, from its origins in biblical writings right up to the modern day. Bringing together literature, theology, politics, and the arts, this fascinating book traces the remarkable influence that the idea of heaven has had - and continues to have - on western culture.

Author Biography

Alister E. McGrath isProfessor of Historical Theology at Oxford University, and Principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. He is the author of numerous best-selling books, including The Future of Christianity, Christian Theology: An Introduction, 3rd edition, and In The Beginning: The Story of the King James Bible.