Overview

The Rhetoric of Redemption: Chesterton, Ethical Criticism, and the Common Man examines the literary criticism written by G. K. Chesterton between 1902 and 1913 from a rhetorical standpoint to ascertain whether Chesterton did in fact create the criticism for the common man he aimed for. To answer this question, this book explores the relationships among writers, readers, books, and critics both during the time Chesterton first began writing and in the context of rhetorical and critical tradition from Plato to the present day. Ultimately, this book argues that Chesterton's unorthodox approach to literature, while still dismissed by the academic establishment, raises fundamental questions about the nature and function of literature and criticism that need to be raised anew in every generation and especially in the wake of each new critical episteme. The Rhetoric of Redemption is extremely useful for both scholars and students of literary criticism and Chesterton enthusiasts who are interested in his approach to literature. This book would also be a valuable resource for courses in nineteenth-century British literature, literary criticism, and rhetorical analysis.

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9781433119804

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Reviews

Alan R. Blackstock's study makes an important contribution to G. K. Chesterton studies. What makes 'The Rhetoric of Redemption' unique is its focus on Chesterton's rhetorical style and strategy and Blackstock's success in placing Chesterton's literary criticism within the broader historical context of 'fin de siecle' English cultural life. Chesterton always asserted that he wrote for the common man, but up until now there has been little study of the rhetorical strategy he employed to reach that group of readers. It is here that Blackstock's book makes its singular mark. He recognizes that the key to unlocking this dimension of Chesterton's purpose is the author's journalism. Blackstock's book explicates with straightforward, accessible prose how and why Chesterton was able to separate himself both rhetorically and philosophically from the aesthetes who were coming to define the age's cultural values. (Jay P. Corrin, Professor and Chair, Division of the Social Sciences, College of General Studies, Bo ston University)

Author Information

Alan R. Blackstock, Associate Professor of English at Utah State University, earned his PhD in nineteenth-century British literature/language and rhetoric from the University of New Mexico. He has received awards for Instructor of the Year and Researcher of the Year while at Utah State University. His previous publications include A Green River Reader (2005) and several articles in peer-reviewed journals.

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