And Can It Be Hymn History

And Can It Be? A Journey Through Hymn History

Introduction:

Have you ever felt the spine-tingling power of a well-loved hymn? That surge of emotion, the sense of connection to something larger than yourself, the comfort in shared faith and experience? These powerful songs, often passed down through generations, represent a rich tapestry of history, theology, and human experience. This exploration delves into the fascinating world of hymn history, examining their origins, evolution, and enduring impact on culture and faith. We'll uncover the stories behind some of the most beloved hymns, exploring the lives of their composers, the contexts in which they were written, and the lasting legacies they've left behind. Prepare to be surprised, moved, and inspired as we journey through the captivating history of hymns, uncovering the "and can it be?" moments that shaped their creation and continue to resonate with us today.


Chapter 1: The Ancient Roots of Hymnody

Hymn singing isn't a recent phenomenon; its roots stretch back millennia. Long before the printing press, hymns existed as oral traditions, passed down through generations. Ancient civilizations, from the Egyptians to the Greeks, utilized hymns in religious ceremonies and celebrations. Psalms, found in the Hebrew Bible, serve as foundational examples of early hymnody, deeply influencing Christian hymn writing. These ancient hymns, often characterized by repetitive phrases and simple melodies, served as powerful tools for communal worship and spiritual expression. We'll examine specific examples from this era, exploring their musical structures, lyrical themes, and their influence on later hymn writing. The simplicity and power of these early hymns offer a profound insight into the enduring human need for spiritual song.


Chapter 2: The Rise of Christian Hymnody

The early Christian church embraced hymn singing wholeheartedly, incorporating it into their liturgical practices. The influence of the Psalms is clearly evident in early Christian hymns, but new themes emerged reflecting the burgeoning Christian faith. Figures like Ambrose of Milan, a 4th-century bishop, played a significant role in shaping early Christian hymnody, contributing influential hymns that are still sung today. The development of plainchant, a monophonic style of liturgical singing, further solidified the place of hymns in Christian worship. We’ll discuss the significant contributions of early Christian hymn writers and analyze the evolution of musical styles during this period. This chapter explores how the hymns of this era helped shape the identity and beliefs of the early church.


Chapter 3: The Reformation and the Birth of New Hymns

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought about significant changes in religious practice, including hymn singing. Martin Luther, a key figure in the Reformation, championed congregational singing, believing that everyone should participate in worship, not just the clergy. This led to a surge in hymn writing, with composers like Luther himself contributing iconic hymns that remain staples in Protestant churches worldwide. The accessibility of vernacular language in hymns, in contrast to Latin liturgical chants, made worship more inclusive and participatory. This chapter will examine the key figures who shaped hymnody during this transformative period, analyzing the theological shifts reflected in the lyrics and melodies of their compositions.


Chapter 4: The 18th and 19th Centuries: Hymnody's Golden Age

The 18th and 19th centuries are often considered the golden age of hymnody, witnessing an explosion of hymn writing and a diversification of musical styles. The rise of hymnals, collecting hymns from various composers into single volumes, facilitated the spread of hymns across different denominations and regions. Composers like Isaac Watts, Charles Wesley, and Fanny Crosby left an indelible mark on hymnody, crafting hymns that remain widely sung today. We'll explore the key themes that dominated hymn writing during this period, examining how social and political changes influenced the messages conveyed in these songs. This chapter also delves into the evolution of musical styles, showing how hymns adapted to popular musical trends.


Chapter 5: 20th and 21st Century Hymnody: Adaptation and Innovation

Hymnody didn't stagnate in the modern era. While traditional hymns continue to hold their place in worship, contemporary hymn writers have adapted and innovated, creating new hymns that reflect the changing social and theological landscape. The rise of contemporary Christian music has significantly impacted hymn writing, resulting in a blend of traditional and modern styles. This chapter will explore the ways in which hymnody has responded to contemporary challenges and opportunities, examining the creative approaches taken by modern hymn writers. We'll consider the integration of diverse musical styles and the exploration of new theological themes in contemporary hymns.


Chapter 6: The Enduring Legacy of Hymns

Hymns are more than just songs; they are powerful vehicles for conveying faith, hope, and community. Their enduring legacy lies in their ability to transcend time and culture, speaking to universal human experiences. Hymns have shaped social movements, offered solace during times of hardship, and provided a framework for shared communal worship. This concluding chapter reflects on the broader impact of hymns on society, considering their role in shaping religious identity, promoting social justice, and offering comfort and inspiration to countless individuals throughout history. We'll consider the continued relevance of hymns in the 21st century and explore their potential to continue shaping future generations.


Ebook Outline: And Can It Be? A Journey Through Hymn History

I. Introduction: Hook, Overview, and Thesis Statement

II. Main Chapters:

Chapter 1: Ancient Roots of Hymnody
Chapter 2: The Rise of Christian Hymnody
Chapter 3: The Reformation and New Hymns
Chapter 4: 18th & 19th Century Hymnody: A Golden Age
Chapter 5: 20th & 21st Century Hymnody: Adaptation & Innovation
Chapter 6: The Enduring Legacy of Hymns

III. Conclusion: Summary, Key Takeaways, and Future of Hymns


(Detailed Expansion of Outline Points – This section expands on the outline points above, providing a more detailed look at the content of each chapter.) (Note: This section would be expanded significantly in the actual ebook, providing detailed information, examples, and analysis for each chapter)

(I. Introduction): This section would engage the reader with a captivating anecdote or question related to the power of hymns. It would then provide a brief overview of the book's purpose, outlining the journey through hymn history and the key themes that will be explored. The thesis statement would clearly articulate the central argument of the book – that hymns offer a powerful lens through which to understand religious and cultural history.

(II. Main Chapters): Each chapter would delve into a specific period or theme in hymn history, providing detailed historical context, biographical information on key composers, analyses of significant hymns, and discussion of the musical and lyrical styles prevalent in each era. Each chapter would build upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive narrative of hymn history.

(III. Conclusion): The conclusion would summarize the key takeaways from each chapter, reinforcing the central argument of the book. It would also offer reflections on the enduring legacy of hymns, their continued relevance in the modern world, and their potential to continue shaping culture and faith in the future.


FAQs:

1. What makes a hymn different from other types of songs? Hymns are typically characterized by their religious themes, their intended use in worship, and their structure which often facilitates congregational singing.

2. Who were some of the most influential hymn writers? Isaac Watts, Charles Wesley, Fanny Crosby, Martin Luther, and John Newton are among the most influential hymn writers.

3. How have hymns changed over time? Hymns have evolved musically and thematically to reflect cultural and theological shifts. Early hymns were often simpler, while later hymns incorporated more complex harmonies and melodies.

4. What is the significance of congregational singing? Congregational singing fosters a sense of community and shared faith, allowing individuals to actively participate in worship.

5. What are some of the most popular hymns today? "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," "Blessed Assurance," and "Be Still, My Soul" are among the most popular hymns.

6. How have hymns been used in social and political movements? Hymns have often served as anthems for social and political movements, providing a powerful voice for those seeking change.

7. Are there contemporary hymns? Yes, contemporary hymn writers continue to create hymns that reflect modern sensibilities and theological perspectives.

8. Where can I find more information about hymns? Numerous books, websites, and archives dedicated to hymn history and research are available.

9. How can I learn more about the history of a specific hymn? Many resources, including hymnals and online databases, offer detailed information about the history and origins of individual hymns.


Related Articles:

1. The Theology of Hymns: Explores the theological themes prevalent in hymns throughout history.
2. The Music of Hymns: A Historical Perspective: Examines the evolution of musical styles in hymns.
3. Hymns and Social Reform: Discusses the role of hymns in various social and political movements.
4. The Life and Work of Charles Wesley: A biographical study of one of the most prolific hymn writers.
5. The Impact of the Reformation on Hymnody: Analyzes the changes brought about by the Protestant Reformation.
6. Hymns in Different Cultures: Compares and contrasts hymn traditions across various cultures and denominations.
7. Contemporary Hymn Writing: New Voices, New Songs: Focuses on the contributions of modern hymn writers.
8. The Use of Hymns in Modern Worship: Discusses the role of hymns in contemporary religious services.
9. Preserving Hymn History: Archives and Collections: Explores the importance of preserving hymns and their historical context.


  and can it be hymn history: 101 Hymn Stories Kenneth W. Osbeck, 1901 Hymn singing reflects a congregation's spiritual vitality and their response to God's grace.
  and can it be hymn history: Jesus, Lover of My Soul Charles Wesley, 1878 Jesus, Lover of My Soul by Charles Wesley, first published in 1878, is a rare manuscript, the original residing in one of the great libraries of the world. This book is a reproduction of that original, which has been scanned and cleaned by state-of-the-art publishing tools for better readability and enhanced appreciation. Restoration Editors' mission is to bring long out of print manuscripts back to life. Some smudges, annotations or unclear text may still exist, due to permanent damage to the original work. We believe the literary significance of the text justifies offering this reproduction, allowing a new generation to appreciate it.
  and can it be hymn history: Companion to the United Methodist Hymnal Carlton Young, 1993-05 Includes for each hymn in the Hymnal historical background of text and tune; suggested uses for today;name origin;text/tune changes over the years; commentary on Hymnal treatment; and theological base of texts.
  and can it be hymn history: The Invalid's Hymn-Book. [Compiled by Harriett Kiernan. Edited by Charlotte Elliott.] , 1834
  and can it be hymn history: Not Yet Married Marshall Segal, 2017-06-20 Life Is Never Mainly About Love and Marriage. So Learn to Live and Date for More. Many of you grew up assuming that marriage would meet all of your needs and unlock God's purposes for you. But God has far more planned for you than your future marriage. Not Yet Married is not about waiting quietly in the corner of the world for God to bring you the one, but about inspiring you to live and date for more now. If you follow Jesus, the search for a spouse is no longer a pursuit of the perfect person, but a pursuit of more of God. He will likely write a love story for you different than the one you would write for yourself, but that's because he loves you and knows how to write a better story. This book was written to help you find real hope, happiness, and purpose in your not-yet-married life.
  and can it be hymn history: The Hymnal Christopher N. Phillips, 2018-08-01 Understanding the culture of living with hymnbooks offers new insight into the histories of poetry, literacy, and religious devotion. It stands barely three inches high, a small brick of a book. The pages are skewed a bit, and evidence of a small handprint remains on the worn, cheap leather covers that don’t quite close. The book bears the marks of considerable use. But why—and for whom—was it made? Christopher N. Phillips’s The Hymnal is the first study to reconstruct the practices of reading and using hymnals, which were virtually everywhere in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Isaac Watts invented a small, words-only hymnal at the dawn of the eighteenth century. For the next two hundred years, such hymnals were their owners’ constant companions at home, school, church, and in between. They were children's first books, slaves’ treasured heirlooms, and sources of devotional reading for much of the English-speaking world. Hymnals helped many people learn to memorize poetry and to read; they provided space to record family memories, pass notes in church, and carry everything from railroad tickets to holy cards to business letters. In communities as diverse as African Methodists, Reform Jews, Presbyterians, Methodists, Roman Catholics, and Unitarians, hymnals were integral to religious and literate life. An extended historical treatment of the hymn as a read text and media form, rather than a source used solely for singing, this book traces the lives people lived with hymnals, from obscure schoolchildren to Emily Dickinson. Readers will discover a wealth of connections between reading, education, poetry, and religion in Phillips’s lively accounts of hymnals and their readers.
  and can it be hymn history: Amazing Love! How Can It Be Chris Fenner, Brian G. Najapfour, 2020-05-12 The present collection of essays examines specific texts by Charles Wesley in multiple dimensions (theological, poetical, historical, biographical, etc.), demonstrating both the profound nature of the hymns and their continued relevance for Christians today. The discussions are organized by theological/liturgical topics, and each essay treats us to the hymn in its complete original form (noting significant variants as necessary), explains the historical context of its composition, provides a theological interpretation, and relates it to the life and faith of the believer. In the pages of this book, the reader will find both information and inspiration. Scholars of hymnody and of Charles Wesley will appreciate the depth of inquiry in the chapters. Just as importantly, laypersons and hymn lovers (as well as scholars) will find much spiritual benefit from the study of hymns they know and love, as well as texts with which they may be less familiar. This exploration of these profound hymns will surely lead to a deeper understanding of the amazing love responsible for changing the course of Charles Wesley's life, who in turn changed the course of Christian worship. With contributions from: Steve Weaver Jonathan A. Powers Patrick A. Eby Christopher P. McFadden C. Michael Hawn Josh Dear Joe Harrod Paul W. Chilcote Roger D. Duke Michael A.G. Haykin Margaret Garrett Jim Scott Orrick
  and can it be hymn history: Wonderful Words of Life Richard J. Mouw, 2004-08-02 While many evangelical congregations have moved away from hymns and hymnals, these were once central fixtures in the evangelical tradition. This book examines the role and importance of hymns in evangelicalism, not only as a part of worship but as tools for theological instruction, as a means to identity formation, and as records of past spiritual experiences of the believing community. Written by knowledgeable church historians, Wonderful Words of Life explores the significance of hymn-singing in many dimensions of American Protestant and evangelical life. The book focuses mainly on church life in the United States but also discusses the foundational contributions of Isaac Watts and other British hymn writers, the use of gospel songs in English Canada, and the powerful attraction of African-American gospel music for whites of several religious persuasions. Includes appendixes on the American Protestant Hymn Project and on hymns in Roman Catholic hymnals. Contributors: Susan Wise Bauer Thomas E. Bergler Virginia Lieson Brereton Esther Rothenbusch Crookshank Kevin Kee Richard J. Mouw Mark A. Noll Felicia Piscitelli Robert A. Schneider Rochelle A. Stackhouse Jeffrey VanderWilt
  and can it be hymn history: Then Sings My Soul Special Edition Robert J. Morgan, 2022-09-13 In this special seasonal edition, bestselling author Robert J. Morgan shares the incredible stories behind traditional holiday hymns of faith, including Christmas, Easter, and more. Is there a festive season of the year that is complete without one of your favorite hymns? Not only do hymns connect you to great memories, but they also reveal the faith of those who lived throughout history. As Robert Morgan explored the stories behind some of the best-loved hymns, he found fascinating accounts of tribulations, triumphs, struggles, and hope—ordinary people who connected with God in amazing ways, sharing their experiences through song. Included inside this special edition are: 150 devotional-style stories with the words and music to each hymn Includes hymns for holidays including Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, and more Jagged edged paper, giving it a classic feel Includes a complete hymn index by title, first line, and songwriter Perfect for use as a daily devotional, teaching illustration, or for song leaders and music ministers Discover the inspiration behind your favorite hymns. Find new favorites as you relate to the people whose walk of faith led them to write these classic songs of praise. Share these stories with your family, friends, and church, and find more depth and meaning as you worship God through song.
  and can it be hymn history: Rock of Ages Augustus Toplady, 1881
  and can it be hymn history: Psalter Hymnal Handbook Emily Ruth Brink, Bertus Frederick Polman, 1998 An indispensable guide for worship leaders. Imagine presenting the story behind a hymn before your congregation sings it! The only source of information on all the songs and contents of the 1987 Psalter Hymnal. Anyone interested in the history of the songs will enjoy this book.
  and can it be hymn history: Lead like Christ A.W. Tozer, 2021-07-13 What Does Christ-Centered Leadership Look Like? As a Christian, does your leadership approach look any different from that of those who don't follow Christ? Throughout the Bible, God shows us what leadership looks in His kingdom, and sometimes it can seem upside-down. The first shall be last. The master shall be the servant. But how can we apply these counterintuitive truths in our world today? Rather than focusing on the nuts and bolts of management, Lead like Christ uses the book of Titus to take a close look at what biblical leadership entails. Using Paul's instructions to his young ministry partner as a guide, Tozer takes us through themes of grace, servanthood, spiritual boldness, and humility toward the Word of God. This foundation will lead to powerful, long-lasting change in both your own leadership role today as well as in God's eternal kingdom.
  and can it be hymn history: The Stories of Hymns Fr. George William Rutler, 2017-01-24 Hymns are more than beautiful musical compositions; they provide us with a heightened language for praising and speaking to God, all while teaching us theology that reflects both the depth and complexity of Our Lord. Sacred hymns in our day have given way to “fifth-rate poetry set to fourth-rate music,” as C.S. Lewis once remarked. At times, the music used in worship can make us feel as though the culture is usurping the Church rather than being transfigured by it. There is a clear and present need to resurrect those distinctively different songs with a distinctively different vocabulary for people who want to live distinctive lives as followers of Christ. In these pages, Fr. George William Rutler introduces and reflects upon dozens of the greatest hymns written from the earliest years of the Church through the Twentieth Century. The text and composition of each hymn is included, as well as inspiring accounts of their authors and composers, fascinating stories and historical events connected with them, and notes on the significant contributions each one made to theology and music. Fr. Rutler has recovered here a rich musical legacy that will help us to give glory to our God who is Lord of all.
  and can it be hymn history: Just as I Am, Without One Plea Charlotte Elliott, W St John Harper, 2018-10-12 This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. To ensure a quality reading experience, this work has been proofread and republished using a format that seamlessly blends the original graphical elements with text in an easy-to-read typeface. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
  and can it be hymn history: 52 Hymn Story Devotions Lucy Neeley Adams, 2010-10-01 52 Hymn Story Devotions is ideal for anyone who enjoys hymns and leads devotions at church meetings, choir rehearsals, and Sunday school. The volume can also be used by individuals for personal devotions. Key Features: • Each devotion includes a Scripture reference, printed hymn text, and commentary • Provides devotionals based on 52 familiar hymns • Devotions can be read verbatim by leader or party member Key Benefits: • Helps choirs with the spiritual aspect of choir membership • Can be given to a choir member to read with no advanced preparation • Allows choir directors to use devotions to strengthen the choir ministry
  and can it be hymn history: Dictionary of Composers for the Church in Great Britain and Ireland Robert Evans, Maggie Humphreys, 1997-01-01 A dictionary containing 3500 biographical entries, each representing a composer whose work has been used within the worship of the church in Britain and Ireland.
  and can it be hymn history: Gospel Hymns and Sacred Songs , 1875
  and can it be hymn history: A Collection of Hymns, for the Use of the People Called Methodists John Wesley, 1831
  and can it be hymn history: God Will Make a Way Don Moen, 2018-10-16 Life can be difficult. But does God care? Don Moen has learned to lean on God’s promises in good times as well as bad and he says, “You can still trust Him.” “A person would need to look a long time to find a purer heart and voice than those of Don Moen.” —Max Lucado In his new memoir featuring snapshots from his life and career, Don shares heartfelt stories of gentle comfort for people looking for answers. Don asserts, that God has not forgotten us even when… We face a job loss We go through an unexpected divorce We receive a bad report from the doctor We face the death of a loved one As a beloved songwriter and worship leader, Don Moen is the author of classic songs like “Thank you, Lord” and “God Will Make a Way”— the inspiration for this book. He knows what it means to feel anxious, worried, and down. And he knows what it means to persevere and see a new day. If you enjoy the encouraging style of Max Lucado, and if you find comfort in the books of Gary Chapman, then you will love reading God Will Make a Way, a new release from Thomas Nelson.
  and can it be hymn history: Principles of Choral Arranging Robert Sterling, 2021-06 A guide for beginner and intermediate choral music arrangers, covering basic harmony, vocal ensembles, putting an arrangement together, steps to publication.
  and can it be hymn history: Zwingli F. Bruce Gordon, 2021-11-30 A major new biography of Huldrych Zwingli—the warrior preacher who shaped the early Reformation Huldrych Zwingli (1484–1531) was the most significant early reformer after Martin Luther. As the architect of the Reformation in Switzerland, he created the Reformed tradition later inherited by John Calvin. His movement ultimately became a global religion. A visionary of a new society, Zwingli was also a divisive and fiercely radical figure. Bruce Gordon presents a fresh interpretation of the early Reformation and the key role played by Zwingli. A charismatic preacher and politician, Zwingli transformed church and society in Zurich and inspired supporters throughout Europe. Yet, Gordon shows, he was seen as an agitator and heretic by many and his bellicose, unyielding efforts to realize his vision would prove his undoing. Unable to control the movement he had launched, Zwingli died on the battlefield fighting his Catholic opponents.
  and can it be hymn history: The Giver Lois Lowry, 2014 The Giver, the 1994 Newbery Medal winner, has become one of the most influential novels of our time. The haunting story centers on twelve-year-old Jonas, who lives in a seemingly ideal, if colorless, world of conformity and contentment. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory does he begin to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile community. This movie tie-in edition features cover art from the movie and exclusive Q&A with members of the cast, including Taylor Swift, Brenton Thwaites and Cameron Monaghan.
  and can it be hymn history: The Hymns of Martin Luther Martin Luther, 2016-05-20 Collection of 38 hymns and chants widely credited to Martin Luther. Includes piano accompaniment and brief notes about the origin of each hymn.
  and can it be hymn history: The Life of John Wesley , 1856
  and can it be hymn history: Hold the Fort Philip Paul Bliss, 1877
  and can it be hymn history: Morning, Evening, and Midnight Hymns Thomas Ken, 1864
  and can it be hymn history: Olney Hymns ... John Newton, 1877
  and can it be hymn history: Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions, Volume 1 Mark A. Lamport, Benjamin K. Forrest, Vernon M. Whaley, 2019-02-21 Hymns and the music the church sings are tangible means of expressing worship. And while worship is one of, if not the, central functions of the church along with mission, service, education, justice, and compassion, and occupies a prime focus of our churches, a renewed sense of awareness to our theological presuppositions and cultural cues must be maintained to ensure a proper focus in worship. Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions is a 60-chapter, three-volume introductory textbook describing the most influential hymnists, liturgists, and musical movements of the church. This academically grounded resource evaluates both the historical and theological perspectives of the major hymnists and composers that have impacted the church over the course of twenty centuries. Volume 1 explores the early church and concludes with the Renaissance era hymnists. Volume 2 begins with the Reformation and extends to the eighteenth-century hymnists and liturgists. Volume 3 engages nineteenth century hymnists to the contemporary movements of the twenty-first century. Each chapter contains these five elements: historical background, theological perspectives communicated in their hymns/compositions, contribution to liturgy and worship, notable hymns, and bibliography. The mission of Hymns and Hymnody is (1) to provide biographical data on influential hymn writers for students and interested laypeople, and (2) to provide a theological analysis of what these composers have communicated in the theology of their hymns. We believe it is vital for those involved in leading the worship of the church to recognize that what they communicate is in fact theology. This latter aspect, we contend, is missing—yet important—in accessible formats for the current literature.
  and can it be hymn history: Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions, Volume 2 Mark A. Lamport, Benjamin K. Forrest, Vernon M. Whaley, 2019-05-24 Hymns and the music the church sings in worship are tangible means of expressing worship. And while worship is one of, if not the central functions of the church along with mission, service, education, justice, and compassion, and occupies a prime focus of our churches, a renewed sense of awareness to our theological presuppositions and cultural cues must be maintained to ensure a proper focus in worship. Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions is a sixty-chapter, three-volume introductory textbook describing the most influential hymnists, liturgists, and musical movements of the church. This academically grounded resource evaluates both the historical and theological perspectives of the major hymnists and composers who have impacted the church over the course of twenty centuries. Volume 1 explores the early church and concludes with the Renaissance era hymnists. Volume 2 begins with the Reformation and extends to the eighteenth-century hymnists and liturgists. Volume 3 engages nineteenth century hymnists to the contemporary movements of the twenty-first century. Each chapter contains these five elements: historical background, theological perspectives communicated in their hymns/compositions, contribution to liturgy and worship, notable hymns, and bibliography. The mission of Hymns and Hymnody is (1) to provide biographical data on influential hymn writers for students and interested laypeople, and (2) to provide a theological analysis of what these composers have communicated in the theology of their hymns. We believe it is vital for those involved in leading the worship of the church to recognize that what they communicate is in fact theology. This latter aspect, we contend, is missing--yet important--in accessible formats for the current literature.
  and can it be hymn history: History of Ancient Greek Literature Franco Montanari, 2022-05-09 This book offers the most comprehensive and up-to-date history of ancient Greek literature from Homer to Late Antiquity. Its clear structure and detailed presentation of Greek authors and their works as well as literary genres and phenomena makes it an indispensable reference work for all those interested in Greek Antiquity, particularly well-suited for use in the classroom.
  and can it be hymn history: The Jordan River Rules Robert J. Morgan, 2021-06-29
  and can it be hymn history: Music and History Jeffrey H. Jackson, Stanley C. Pelkey, 2005 This book begins with a simple question: Why haven't historians and musicologists been talking to one another? Historians frequently look to all aspects of human activity, including music, in order to better understand the past. Musicologists inquire into the social, cultural, and historical contexts of musical works and musical practices to develop theories about the meanings of compositions and the significance of musical creation. Both disciplines examine how people represent their experiences. This collection of original essays, the first of its kind, argues that the conversation between scholars in the two fields can become richer and more mutually informing. The volume features an eloquent personal essay by historian Lawrence W. Levine, whose work has inspired a whole generation of scholars working on African American music in American history. The first six essays address widely different aspects of musical culture and history ranging from women and popular song during the French Revolution to nineteenth-century music publishing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Two additional essays by scholars outside of musicology and history represent a new kind of disciplinary bridging by using the methods of cultural studies to look at cross-dressing in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century opera and blues responses to lynching in the New South. The last four essays offer models for collaborative, multidisciplinary research with a special emphasis on popular music. Jeffrey H. Jackson, Memphis, Tennessee, is assistant professor of history at Rhodes College. He is the author of Making Jazz French: Music and Modern Life in Interwar Paris. Stanley C. Pelkey, Portage, Michigan, is assistant professor of music at Western Michigan University. He is a member of the College Music Society, and his work has appeared in music-related periodicals.
  and can it be hymn history: The Cambridge Ancient History John Boardman, I. E. S. Edwards, E. Sollberger, N. G. L. Hammond, 1992-01-16 Volume III Part II describes the rise and fall of the great empires of Assyria and Babylonia, the sack of Jerusalem and the exile of the Jews in Babylon.
  and can it be hymn history: Encyclopaedia of the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine in Non-Western Cultures Helaine Selin, 2008-03-12 Here, at last, is the massively updated and augmented second edition of this landmark encyclopedia. It contains approximately 1000 entries dealing in depth with the history of the scientific, technological and medical accomplishments of cultures outside of the United States and Europe. The entries consist of fully updated articles together with hundreds of entirely new topics. This unique reference work includes intercultural articles on broad topics such as mathematics and astronomy as well as thoughtful philosophical articles on concepts and ideas related to the study of non-Western Science, such as rationality, objectivity, and method. You’ll also find material on religion and science, East and West, and magic and science.
  and can it be hymn history: Eloisa to Abelard Alexander Pope, 2018-06-13 Eloisa to Abelard Pope, Alexander The 18th century was a wealth of knowledge, exploration and rapidly growing technology and expanding record-keeping made possible by advances in the printing press. In its determination to preserve the century of revolution, Gale initiated a revolution of its own: digitization of epic proportions to preserve these invaluable works in the largest archive of its kind. Now for the first time these high-quality digital copies of original 18th century manuscripts are available in print, making them highly accessible to libraries, undergraduate students, and independent scholars. Western literary study flows out of eighteenth-century works by Alexander Pope, Daniel Defoe, Henry Fielding, Frances Burney, Denis Diderot, Johann Gottfried Herder, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and others. Experience the birth of the modern novel, or compare the development of language using dictionaries and grammar discourses. We are delighted to publish this classic book as part of our extensive Classic Library collection. Many of the books in our collection have been out of print for decades, and therefore have not been accessible to the general public. The aim of our publishing program is to facilitate rapid access to this vast reservoir of literature, and our view is that this is a significant literary work, which deserves to be brought back into print after many decades. The contents of the vast majority of titles in the Classic Library have been scanned from the original works. To ensure a high quality product, each title has been meticulously hand curated by our staff. Our philosophy has been guided by a desire to provide the reader with a book that is as close as possible to ownership of the original work. We hope that you will enjoy this wonderful classic work, and that for you it becomes an enriching experience.
  and can it be hymn history: History of the Development of Chinese Chan Thought Tianxiang Ma, 2023-10-13 The book aims to describe the history of Chan (Japanese Zen) School thought from the standpoint of social history. Chan, a school of East Asian Buddhism, was influential on all levels of societies in the region because of its intellectual and aesthetic appeal. In China, Chan infiltrated all levels of society, mainly because it engaged with society and formed the mainstream of Buddhism from the tenth or eleventh centuries through to the twentieth century. This book, taking a critical stance, examines the entire history of Chan thought and practice from the viewpoint of a modern Chinese scholar, not a practitioner, but an intellectual historian who places ideological developments in social contexts. The author suggests that core elements of Chan have their origins in Daoist philosophers, especially Zhuangzi, and not in Indian Buddhist concepts. Covering the period from the sixth century into the twentieth century, it deals with Chan interactions with neo-Confucianism, Quanzhen Daoism, and Gongyang new text philology, as well as with literature and scholarship, its fusion with Pure Land Buddhism, and its syncretic tendencies. Chan’s exchanges with emperors from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasty, as well as the motives of some loyalists of the Ming Dynasty for joining Chan after the fall of the Ming, are described. The book concludes with an examination of the views of Chan of Hu Shi, D.T. Suzuki, and the scholar-monk Yinshun.
  and can it be hymn history: Entertaining History Chris Mackowski, 2020-01-13 Popular media can spark the national consciousness in a way that captures people’s attention, interests them in history, and inspires them to visit battlefields, museums, and historic sites. This lively collection of essays and feature stories celebrates the novels, popular histories, magazines, movies, television shows, photography, and songs that have enticed Americans to learn more about our most dramatic historical era. From Ulysses S. Grant’s Memoirs to Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, from Roots to Ken Burns’s The Civil War, from “Dixie” to “Ashokan Farewell,” and from Civil War photography to the Gettysburg Cyclorama, trendy and well-loved depictions of the Civil War are the subjects of twenty contributors who tell how they and the general public have been influenced by them. Sarah Kay Bierle examines the eternal appeal of Gone with the Wind and asks how it is that a protagonist who so opposed the war has become such a figurehead for it. H. R. Gordon talks with New York Times–bestselling novelist Jeff Shaara to discuss the power of storytelling. Paul Ashdown explores ColdMountain’s value as a portrait of the war as national upheaval, and Kevin Pawlak traces a shift in cinema’s depiction of slavery epitomized by 12 Years a Slave. Tony Horwitz revisits his iconic Confederates in the Attic twenty years later. The contributors’ fresh analysis articulates a shared passion for history’s representation in the popular media. The variety of voices and topics in this collection coalesces into a fascinating discussion of some of the most popular texts in the genres. In keeping with the innovative nature of this series, web-exclusive material extends the conversation beyond the book.
  and can it be hymn history: Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions, Volume 3 Mark A. Lamport, Benjamin Forrest, Vernon M. Whaley, 2020-01-01 Hymns and the music the church sings in worship are tangible means of expressing worship. And while worship is one of, if not the central functions of the church along with mission, service, education, justice, and compassion, and occupies a prime focus of our churches, a renewed sense of awareness to our theological presuppositions and cultural cues must be maintained to ensure a proper focus in worship. Hymns and Hymnody: Historical and Theological Introductions is a sixty-chapter, three-volume introductory textbook describing the most influential hymnists, liturgists, and musical movements of the church. This academically grounded resource evaluates both the historical and theological perspectives of the major hymnists and composers who have impacted the church over the course of twenty centuries. Volume 1 explores the early church and concludes with the Renaissance era hymnists. Volume 2 begins with the Reformation and extends to the eighteenth-century hymnists and liturgists. Volume 3 engages nineteenth century hymnists to the contemporary movements of the twenty-first century. Each chapter contains these five elements: historical background, theological perspectives communicated in their hymns/compositions, contribution to liturgy and worship, notable hymns, and bibliography. The mission of Hymns and Hymnody is (1) to provide biographical data on influential hymn writers for students and interested laypeople, and (2) to provide a theological analysis of what these composers have communicated in the theology of their hymns. We believe it is vital for those involved in leading the worship of the church to recognize that what they communicate is in fact theology. This latter aspect, we contend, is missing—yet important—in accessible formats for the current literature.
  and can it be hymn history: A History of Roman Literature Harold North Fowler, 2019-11-29 Harold North Fowler's 'A History of Roman Literature' is an indispensable guide to the literary landscape of ancient Rome. Fowler's book offers a comprehensive and accessible overview of the major writers and works of Roman literature, with an emphasis on providing historical context and biographical details to help readers connect with the personalities behind the texts. This book also offers insight into the importance of lost works of literature and their authors, as well as summaries of literature from the third to the fifth centuries, which played an essential role in shaping European civilization.
  and can it be hymn history: A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India Upinder Singh, 2008 A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India is the most comprehensive textbook yet for undergraduate and postgraduate students. It introduces students to original sources such as ancient texts, artefacts, inscriptions and coins, illustrating how historians construct history on their basis. Its clear and balanced explanation of concepts and historical debates enables students to independently evaluate evidence, arguments and theories. This remarkable textbook allows the reader to visualize and understand the rich and varied remains of India s ancient past, transforming the process of discovering that past into an exciting experience.