Sounding the Depths: Theology Through the Arts

by Jeremy S. Begbie (Editor)

Theologians and artists reflect here, in a series of essays, on how theology and the arts can be mutually enriching and beneficial. The contributors argue that it is part of theology's "calling" to engage with culture, particularly the arts, and that it is not in fact "true" theology unless it does so. The essays cover such topics as drama, cathedral art, poetry and music; the contributors include Tom Wright, Rowan Williams and David Ford.

Genres: Art

Paperback

First published July 1, 2002

About the author

Dr Jeremy Begbie is Thomas A. Langford Distinguished Research Professor of Theology at Duke Divinity School, Duke University, where he directs Duke Initiatives in Theology and the Arts. His primary research interest is the correlation between theology and the arts, in particular the interplay between music and theology. he is also an Affiliated Lecturer in the Faculty of Music at the University of Cambridge.

Reviews

[Jason Clarke · Rating 2 out of 5]

Promised much delivered little. Great poem by Michael Symmons Roberts and introductory essay by Begbie. Most of the rest was like 'explaining a joke' - wonder drained in the telling

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of this book more than the actual book. Basically Jeremy Begbie arranged for the collaboration of artists and theologians to create four separate works of art that interpret and/or communicate some sort of Christian truth. I enjoyed the writings of the artists more than the theologians for the most part. Some of the theologians, in my opinion, tended to take themselves a bit too seriously and go on longer than necessary. Still, this book stirred up all sorts of ideas and increased my desire to see more collaborations among artists and Christians in general with a goal of honoring Christ. I am interested to read more of Jeremy Begbie. His introduction to the book (perhaps the best part) and the mere fact that he thought of this makes me want to hear more of what he is thinking.