Virgin Mary: A Very Short Introduction

Mary, a Jewish mother, is significant in Christianity, Islam, and art. This Very Short Introduction explores the evolution of Marian thought from early Christianity to the present day, covering Catholic, Orthodox, and other Christian denominations, as well as the Islamic Mary. It also discusses apparitions and representations in contemporary popular culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Virgin Mary, a revered figure in Christianity, Islam, and throughout history, holds a unique place in the hearts and minds of people worldwide. Her significance extends beyond religious devotion, as she has inspired countless artistic creations, religious philosophies, and doctrines. The concept of the Virgin herself has been the subject of intense debates, encompassing issues such as the Virginal body, race, anti-Semitism, and globalism. This Very Short Introduction delves into the evolution of Marian thought from the early days of Christianity to the present.

Mary Joan Winn Leith, the author, focuses on the centuries between the rise of Christianity and the Counter-Reformation, a period when significant doctrinal issues, popular traditions, and associated conventions of Marian iconography emerged. Leith's interdisciplinary approach encompasses art history, archaeology, gender studies, and doctrinal history, allowing her to explore various aspects of Mary's significance. She examines the misunderstandings and unquestioned assumptions about the Virgin Mary that permeate both past and present Christian consciousness and the secular world.

Leith also delves into the topic of apparitions of Mary and representations of Mary in contemporary popular culture. Through her analysis, she sheds light on how Mary has been interpreted and portrayed in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, literature, and music. The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press is renowned for its concise and accessible introductions to complex subjects. This book, in particular, offers a valuable entry point for those seeking to understand the multifaceted nature of the Virgin Mary and her enduring influence on world culture.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 113 x 173 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198794912