Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton (1908)
Orthodoxy is a classic work of Christian apologetics written by G.K. Chesterton in 1908. In the book, Chesterton argues for the truth and reasonableness of traditional Christian beliefs, including the existence of God, the divinity of Jesus Christ, and the reality of miracles. He also critiques various forms of modern skepticism and atheism, arguing that they are ultimately self-defeating and irrational. The book is written in a lively and engaging style, with many memorable quotes and anecdotes. It remains one of the most influential works of Christian apologetics ever written.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1908 · Genre: Christian Apologetics, Philosophy, Essay · 9 chapters · 71,319 words
First lines
THE only possible excuse for this book is that it is an answer to a challenge. Even a bad shot is dignified when he accepts a duel. When some time ago I published a series of hasty but sincere papers, under the name of "Heretics," several critics for whose intellect I have a warm respect (I may mention specially Mr. G. S. Street) said that it was all very well for me to tell everybody to affirm his cosmic theory, but that I had carefully avoided supporting my precepts with example. "I will begin to worry about my philosophy," said Mr. Street, "when Mr. Chesterton has given us his. " It was perhaps an incautious suggestion to make to a person only too ready to write books upon the feeblest provocation. But after all, though Mr. Street has inspired and created this book, he need not read it.
What this Textopian page supports
Orthodoxy is listed on Textopian as an essay by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Christian Apologetics, Philosophy, Essay, Theology, Non-fiction
- Length: 71,319 words
- Structure: 9 chapters, 518 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Orthodoxy?
- How does this essay by G.K. Chesterton fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Christian Apologetics first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Wheel by G. K. Chesterton
- The Thing by G. K. Chesterton
- The Deluge by G. K. Chesterton
- Christian Science by G. K. Chesterton
- The Confusion Of Christendom by George Bernard Shaw
- Why Not Give Christianity A Trial by George Bernard Shaw
Genres
- Christian Apologetics — The book is a defense of Christian faith and explores theological arguments.
- Philosophy — It delves into philosophical discussions about belief, reason, and the nature of truth.
- Essay — The work is structured as a series of essays presenting the author's personal reflections and arguments.
- Theology — The text examines theological concepts and the author's interpretation of Christian doctrine.
Tags
philosophy · theology · Christianity · faith · reason · belief · doubt · paradox · tradition · modernity · spirituality · rationalism
Contents
- Introduction in Defence of Everything Else
- The Maniac
- The Suicide of Thought
- The Ethics of Elfland
- The Flag of the World
- The Paradoxes of Christianity
- The Eternal Revolution
- The Romance of Orthodoxy
- Authority and the Adventurer