Women and the Word: Contemporary Women Novelists and the Bible [Hardcover]

Women and the Word examines why, in today's secular society, so many of the finest British and American women novelists seem preoccupied with Biblical themes and stories. It offers informed and challenging analysis of individual novels and stories for the literary critic and student. By analysing those texts in the context of myth and religion, however, it also makes an important and ground-breaking contribution to a number of the inter-disciplinary debates taking place within women's studies.Preface and Acknowledgements Introduction From the Mother Goddess to God the Father Destructive Genesis: Old Testament Myths of Origin and Creation Stabat Mater: Christianity and the Virgin Mother Outside Time: Prophets of Transgression A Dissenting Voice: Angela Carter's Passion of New Eve Paradise Lost and Regained: Alice Walker and Toni Morrison Bibliography Index

'In this study Dr King shows lucidly how ideas about varieties of religious experience, and absolutely fundamental issues about masculinity and femininity, are explored by seven British and American writers. In dealing with these frequently highly complex novels, Dr King brings out the intricacy of the thinking embodied in them, clarifying difficult arguments without oversimplifying, and opening up searching questions. The ideas that emerge are notably positive, offering ways to celebrate the body, maternity, and women's creativity. This is a book which will be enjoyed by readers with interests in literature, theology or cultural studies.' - Flora Alexander, Aberdeen University Review