Retrospective Atonement, and the Expectation of

Name: Retrospective Atonement, and the Expectation of the Redeemer
Author: George Bernard Shaw

The work explores the transitional phase between established, costly religions and emerging, accessible beliefs. It highlights a period of anticipation for a redeemer, who is envisioned but not yet realized. This figure, referred to by various names such as Christ or Messiah, symbolizes hope for redemption among the marginalized. Despite the absence of the redeemer, the faithful find solace in the belief that he will eventually arrive, offering a retrospective atonement for their sins. This expectation fosters a sense of community and resilience, as nations express their longing through poetry and prophecy. The text draws parallels between historical religious texts, illustrating how this atmosphere of hope permeates different eras. The narrative emphasizes the psychological and cultural significance of awaiting a savior, suggesting that the promise of redemption can be as comforting as its fulfillment. The work ultimately critiques the socio-religious dynamics of the time, reflecting on the interplay between faith, expectation, and the human condition.

By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1908 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction · 191 words

First lines

But this does not happen at once. Between the old costly religion of the rich and the new gratuitous religion of the poor there comes an interregnum in which the redeemer, though conceived by the human imagination, is not yet found. He is awaited and expected under the names of the Christ, the Messiah, Baldur the Beautiful, or what not; but he has not yet come. Yet the sinners are not therefore in despair. It is true that they cannot say, as we say, "The Christ has come, and has redeemed us; " but they can say "The Christ will come, and will redeem us," which, as the atonement is conceived as retrospective, is equally consoling. There are periods when nations are seething with this expectation and crying aloud with prophecy of the Redeemer through their poets. To feel that atmosphere we have only to take up the Bible and read Isaiah at one end of such a period and Luke and John at the other.

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Retrospective Atonement, and the Expectation of the Redeemer is listed on Textopian as an essay by George Bernard Shaw, dated 1908 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: George Bernard Shaw
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
Length: 191 words
Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Religious Fiction — The text explores themes of redemption, atonement, and the expectation of a redeemer, which are central to religious narratives.
Philosophical Fiction — The work delves into philosophical discussions about the nature of redemption and the human imagination's role in conceiving a redeemer.
Historical Fiction — The narrative references historical periods and figures, such as Christ and Messiah, to explore the evolution of religious thought.
Literary Fiction — The writing style and thematic depth suggest a focus on literary quality and exploration of complex ideas.