Metanoia: Rhetoric, Authenticity, and the Transformation of the Self

In this book, Adam Ellwanger explores the relationship between personal transformation and public recognition, developing a critical assessment of the concept of authenticity. He argues that metanoia, a change within a person that results in a truer version of themselves, provides insight into modern forms of self-transformation. Drawing on ancient and medieval sources and contemporary discourses, Ellwanger elucidates the role of language in signifying and authenticating identity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2022
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

Western culture is experiencing a transformative era, offering unprecedented possibilities for personal growth and evolution. However, true transformation necessitates a combination of personal testimony and public recognition. In his insightful book, Adam Ellwanger adopts a rhetorical approach to explore the intricate relationship between the individual and the collective in the context of transformation. Through the lens of metanoia, a concept rooted in classical tradition and later embraced by early Christians as a term for religious conversion, Ellwanger demonstrates that transformation involves a profound inner shift that leads to a more authentic version of oneself. He applies this theory to the contemporary world, highlighting the unique insights it offers into modern forms of self-transformation. Drawing upon a rich tapestry of ancient and medieval sources, including the works of Thucydides, Plato, Paul the Apostle, and Augustine, as well as contemporary discourses on self-transformation, Ellwanger elucidates the crucial role of language in shaping and authenticating identity.

This timely and original study offers a transhistorical framework for personal transformation, resonating with scholars engaged in social theory, philosophy, rhetoric, and the history of Christianity. By delving into the complexities of the personal and the public, Ellwanger's work provides valuable insights into the ongoing quest for self-discovery and authenticity. As we navigate the rapidly changing landscape of our world, his book serves as a compass, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of the transformative power of language and the significance of public recognition in the pursuit of personal growth and transformation.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271085937