The Persistence of Evil: A Cultural, Literary and Theological Analysis

This book explores the history of the belief in Satan, drawing from various sources such as the Bible, poetry, legend, and modern novels and plays. It chronicles the decline of that belief and the attempts to treat the problem of evil philosophically. It also discusses the Catholic Church's reaction to the persistence of evil in modern times with a revision of the 1614 Rite of Exorcism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book delves into the rich tapestry of historical perspectives on the belief in the existence of Satan, drawing upon a diverse range of sources. It incorporates the sacred texts of the Bible, the profound poetry of Dante and Milton, the captivating legend of Faust, as well as contemporary novels and plays by renowned authors such as Mark Twain and G.B. Shaw, and the spiritual writings of C.S. Lewis. Fintan Lyons, O.S.B., skillfully chronicles the evolution of this belief across centuries, exploring both its decline and the philosophical attempts to address the profound issue of evil.

At the core of this captivating exploration lies Lyons's profound endeavor to harmonize traditional notions of evil with the contemporary concerns and even alarms surrounding it. He argues that evidence of evil's persistence has been particularly striking in modern times, manifested in wars and atrocities, as well as the rise of phenomena like Satanic Cults and potential or actual instances of diabolical possession. In response to this challenging situation, the Catholic Church made a significant revision to the 1614 Rite of Exorcism in 1998, which is analyzed in this book from both theological and psychological perspectives. By highlighting the transition from belief in Satan to the personification of evil in historical regimes and characters, Lyons sheds light on how this shift brings contemporary culture into sharp focus.

Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Lyons offers a comprehensive account of humanity's ongoing quest to comprehend the enigmatic and unsettling reality of evil. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this complex subject, providing a rich tapestry of historical, literary, and philosophical perspectives.

Weight: 606g
Dimension: 235 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567710116