Abstract

John Keble had an immense influence on nineteenth-century literature and culture. A founding figure of the Oxford Movement, he was mythologized as the living embodiment of Christian ideals. His 1827 volume of verse The Christian Year was the best-selling book of poetry in the Victorian era while his lectures as Oxford Professor of Poetry were highly influential. Those indebted to his ideas include figures as diverse as John Henry Newman, Christina Rossetti and Alfred Tennyson.

Despite his evident importance, Keble's social, political and cultural impacts on his times have, until recently, been significantly underestimated. This interdisciplinary volume is a major contribution to our understanding of the importance of Keble's life and work. It provides an entirely fresh perspective on Keble's writings, bringing critical work on Keble into the twenty-first century, in particular, demonstrating the importance of his contribution to nineteenth-century literature, politics and theology. Including works by a number of prominent scholars, 'John Keble in Context' provides a wide range of perspectives on Keble's place in politics and religion, his writings and his influence on his literary heirs and successors. This unique and timely volume offers the first major reassessment of Keble's work for several decades, and a comprehensive introduction to this key figure. John Keble in Context will appeal to students of Victorian literature, history, religion and culture.

'This is a book that puts John Keble in his literary, cultural, political, and theological context as never before. It is essential reading for Students of nineteenth-century English literature as much as of religious history.' —Peter Nockles, author of 'The Oxford Movement in Context'

Kirstie Blair has taught at the University of Glasgow since February 2005, having previously taught at Keble College and St Peter's College, Oxford. Her primary research interests lie in Victorian literature, particularly poetry and poetic form, literature and medicine, and literature and religion.

'"John Keble in Context" is a pioneering work… It is the most scholarly and enlightening treatment of Keble in years. A splendid and rewarding read.' —Rev’d Dr Charles R Henery, Helmuth Professor of Ecclesiastical History

This unique, interdisciplinary and timely volume offers the first major reassessment of Keble's work for several decades, and a comprehensive introduction to this key figure. 'John Keble in Context' provides a wide range of perspectives on Keble's place in politics and religion, his writings and his influence on his literary heirs and successors.

'Illuminating…all the essays repay reading. These are real and impressive scholarly contributions from a relatively new generation of historians.' —'New Directions'

'In attempting to place KebLe "in context", then, the contributors to this volume are mapping out an alien intellectual and cultural terrain composed of disputes over Erastianism, apostolic succession, baptismal regeneration and prevenient grace.' —'Times Literary Supplement'