Friends, Neighbours, Sinners: Religious Difference and English Society, 1689–1750

Friends, Neighbours, and Sinners explores how religious difference shaped English society in the first half of the eighteenth century, examining the social subtleties of interactions between people of differing beliefs and the graduated layers of religious exclusivity that influenced everyday existence. It proposes a new approach to the social and cultural history of the period, acknowledging the integral role of religious difference in key aspects of eighteenth-century life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Friends, Neighbours, and Sinners delves into the profound ways in which religious diversity shaped English society during the early eighteenth century. Through a meticulous examination of the intricate social dynamics between individuals of differing beliefs, and the ways in which these interactions were facilitated through shared languages and customs of the long eighteenth century, Carys Brown uncovers the intricate layers of religious exclusivity that permeated everyday life. By undertaking this exploration, the book offers a groundbreaking perspective on the social and cultural history of the eighteenth century, recognizing the indispensable role of religious differences in shaping key aspects of this era. This book not only seeks to expand our existing understanding of religious coexistence during this period but also challenges our preconceived notions about the construction of social discourses, parish politics, and cultural spaces in eighteenth-century England.

Religious diversity played a significant role in shaping English society during the early eighteenth century. Friends, Neighbours, and Sinners, a book by Carys Brown, explores the intricate ways in which religious differences influenced social interactions and everyday life. By examining the nuanced social subtleties of interactions between people of different beliefs, Brown sheds light on the graduated layers of religious exclusivity that shaped eighteenth-century society. Through a comprehensive analysis of languages, behaviors, and cultural spaces, the book proposes a new approach to understanding the social and cultural history of the eighteenth century. It acknowledges the integral role of religious difference in shaping key aspects of eighteenth-century life, such as social discourses, parish politics, and cultural spaces. By challenging our preconceived notions and expanding our understanding of this period, Friends, Neighbours, and Sinners offers valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of early modern English society.

ISBN-13: 9781009221337