Preaching and New Worlds

This insightful collection examines how sermons shaped cultural and religious perspectives in various contexts, as explored in Preaching and New Worlds.

This collection of essays delves into the multifaceted concept of 'New Worlds' within the realm of medieval and early modern sermon studies. While the phrases 'Old World' and 'New World' are frequently referenced in European and American contexts, Preaching and New Worlds expands this dialogue by examining how sermons in the Atlantic world and beyond engaged diverse audiences with emerging cultural and religious viewpoints, irrespective of their geographical or temporal settings.

The essays highlight the implicit acknowledgment of the 'other' in sermons, suggesting the existence of a novel world that could evoke both fascination and fear. Scholars featured in Preaching and New Worlds investigate a wide array of medieval and early modern sermons, revealing how these messages served as powerful tools for mass communication while reflecting evolving identities. These identities were often contested, yet at times, they were embraced within the framework of long-standing traditions.

Key themes explored in this volume include apocalypticism, the interplay of art and mission, cultural exchanges, multilingualism, various forms of religious life, and theological advancements. The collection provides a rich tapestry of insights into how sermons not only conveyed messages but also mirrored the complexities of identity and cultural interaction during a transformative period in history.