Redating Narrative Theology: A Challenge to The Conventional Chronology. (18th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pickering, David
• Is Part Of: Heythrop journal. Volume 61:Number 6(2020)
• Page Start: 998
• Page End: 1010
• Publication Date: 2020-08-18
• Subjects: Theology -- Periodicals; Philosophy -- Periodicals; 201.61
• DOI: 10.1111/heyj.13685
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0018-1196

Abstract

Abstract : This essay considers the work of G.K. Chesterton, and in particular The Everlasting Man, in relation to narrative theology. It discusses the apparent contradiction between Aidan Nichols' judgement that this book develops a 'Christocentric theology of history' and Chesterton's own assertion that its approach is 'historical rather than theological'. It argues that Chesterton employs both natural and narrative theology in The Everlasting Man, and these two forms of theology frame a reading of the book which resolves the seeming contradiction between Nichols' and Chesterton's views, while also challenging the conventional chronology used in discussions of narrative theology.