Mr. Kingsley's Convertites. (1865.)
The novel explores the theme of conversion and its consequences on individuals and society. It follows a group of characters who undergo a spiritual transformation, leading to changes in their relationships, values, and worldview. The narrative delves into the complexities of faith, morality, and social norms, raising questions about the nature of truth and the human condition. Through the characters' experiences, the novel examines the tensions between tradition and innovation, highlighting the challenges of navigating conflicting loyalties and identities. Ultimately, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of conversion as a multifaceted process that can be both transformative and disorienting, leading to new perspectives but also unforeseen consequences.
By James Stamers · First published 1865 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Social Commentary · 5,239 words
First lines
Readers can scarcely have forgotten the amusing "turn-up" between the Rev. Mr. Kingsley and the Rev. Dr. Newman, in which the latter got the former "into Chancery," and punished him so pitilessly. While reading the "Apologia pro Vita Sua," one naturally reflected now and then upon the opinions, as stated in the books, of Dr. Newman's antagonist; and the fight grew more and more comically exquisite as one gradually learnt the thorough agreement at bottom of the two who were struggling so fiercely at top. When I speak of Mr. Kingsley's books, I mean his novels and romances, all of which (except the one not yet completely published) I have duly read and enjoyed. As for certain collections of sermons, a dialogue for loose thinkers, a _jeu d'esprit_ on the Pentateuch, together with various trifles by way of lectures on history and philosophy, I confess that none of these have I ever even attempted to peruse. To palliate this sin of omission I can only urge the high probability that a man of Mr. Kingsley's character must find much more vigorous and ample expression in a free and easy novel than in any didactic or argumentative treatise, with its wearisome requirements of consecutiveness and cramping limitations of logic. I now ask the leaders of the _National Reformer_ to accompany me in a general review of his romances, because I think that such a review will develop two or three facts seldom noticed in the critiques -- whether friendly or adverse -- that abound upon his writings. Especially, I think that it will be found that the popular phrases, "Muscular Christianity" and "Broad Church," by no means sufficiently characterise his religious tendency; and that, with all the superficial unlikeness, almost amounting to perfect contrast between him and Dr. Newman, the opponents as religious men are fundamentally alike in this -- that their respective creeds satisfy, or appear to satisfy, in the same manner the same peculiarly intense want in their several natures.
What this Textopian page supports
Mr. Kingsley's Convertites. (1865.) is listed on Textopian as a novel by James Stamers, dated 1865 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: James Stamers
- Date: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Satire
- Length: 5,239 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious Fiction — The central theme revolves around characters experiencing religious conversions, often through personal crises.
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores philosophical debates and the nature of belief, particularly through dialogues and character introspection.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and religious practices, reflecting on the implications of 'Muscular Christianity' and other religious movements.
- Historical Fiction — The story is set against historical backdrops, such as the revolt of Heraclian and the murder of Hypatia, integrating real historical events and figures.
Tags
Christianity · Conversion · Literary Fiction · 19th Century Literature · Social Commentary · Moralism · Religious Themes · Critique of Society · Satire · Humor · Philosophical · Psychological Insight