Apocalyptic scenarios remain prevalent and powerful in popular culture (television, film, comic books, and popular fiction), in politics (debates on climate change, environmentalism, Middle East policy, and military planning), and in various religious traditions. Academic interest in apocalypticism is flourishing; indeed, the study of both ancient and contemporary apocalyptic phenomena has long been a focus of attention in scholarly research and a ready way to engage the religious studies classroom.
Apocalypses in Context is designed for just such a classroom, bringing together the insights of scholars in various fields and using different methods to discuss the manifestations of apocalyptic enthusiasm in different ages. This approach enables the instructor to make connections and students to recognize continuities and contrasts across history. Apocalypses in Context features illustrations, study questions, and suggestions for further reading after each chapter, as well as recommended media and artwork to support the college classroom. The second edition includes five new chapters on topics relevant to the modern student. Within the original chapters, there are now major revisions based on feedback related to classroom needs.
Apocalypses in Context offers an accessible introduction to apocalyptic literature, as well as its reception and its aftereffects. The range of topics covered and the essay styles are ideal for undergraduates and anyone interested in knowing more about the persistence of end-times thinking.
Lynn R. Huber, Maude Sharpe Powell Professor of Religious Studies, Elon University, and author of Revelation in the Wisdom Commentary series
Apocalypses in Context is truly a one-stop shop for professors of religious studies, history, literature, political science, or sociology who want to teach a course on the pervasiveness of apocalypticism in Western culture, all the way from prehistory to last week.
Sara Parks, assistant professor of religious studies, St. Francis Xavier University, and author of Gender in the Rhetoric of Jesus