Publication Date

8-1967

Advisor(s) - Committee Chair

William McMahon, Willson Wood, Addie Hilliard, John Minton

Degree Program

Department of English

Degree Type

Master of Arts

Abstract

Critics of Eliot often deal with his religious themes, but not with sympathy. In general, it seems that they are not at ease with Eliot's religious views; so the tendency has been not to give them a careful, objective treatment. The purpose of my study of the plays is to attempt such an unbiased examination, to keep in view precisely what Eliot dues say and the religious meanings that are clearly implied. Whether Eliot's ideas as they stand may be compatible or incompatible with the current thought climate is not, after all, the most important thing. He is a serious theological writer, sensitive and deep, and his plays deserve to be given a careful, straightforward reading, one that will make his major intentions clear. A number of critics, of course, do offer incisive comment on various matters, but a balanced, whole view of religious content in the'main plays seems to be needed. I have hoped at least to make a start toward such an important project.

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | English Language and Literature | Literature in English, British Isles | Literature in English, North America

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