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Charisma under Pressure: Joseph Smith, American Prophet, 1831–1839
When Joseph Smith entered Kirtland, Ohio, for the first time, he had only the year before established a church and brought forth a new book of scripture, the Book of Mormon. After moving the church and most of its members from western New York and establishing its headquarters at Kirtland—while simultaneously establishing his Zion in communities in Missouri—he oversaw a decade of both peace and prosperity and chaos and conflict.
But just who was Joseph Smith? What motivated him? In examining Smith’s life during his Ohio and Missouri sojourns, Vogel seeks to answer those questions. But, Vogel is quick to note, “There are, in fact, many possible constructions of Joseph Smith, and depending on how one assesses the evidence for his truth-claims, a completely different Joseph Smith emerges. But this is probably as Smith wanted it.”
During this period, Smith established a temple, printing presses, additional scripture, expanded church offices, and built a bank—all indicating a sense of permanence and strength for his young church at one level while causing its near collapse at another.
But just who was Joseph Smith? What motivated him? In examining Smith’s life during his Ohio and Missouri sojourns, Vogel seeks to answer those questions. But, Vogel is quick to note, “There are, in fact, many possible constructions of Joseph Smith, and depending on how one assesses the evidence for his truth-claims, a completely different Joseph Smith emerges. But this is probably as Smith wanted it.”
During this period, Smith established a temple, printing presses, additional scripture, expanded church offices, and built a bank—all indicating a sense of permanence and strength for his young church at one level while causing its near collapse at another.
1024 pages, Hardcover
Published May 8, 2023
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83 people want to read
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August 15, 2023
In Charisma Under Pressure, a meticulous and detailed biography of Joseph Smith from the years 1831 through 1839, Dan Vogel weaves together the known facts and existing scholarship surrounding the life of the enigmatic Mormon leader. Vogel’s expertise in early Mormon history shines through as he presents a thorough and well-documented account of Joseph Smith's life during a time of change and upheaval. Drawing upon a range of sources, Vogel explores Smith’s religious experiences, revelations, and the social and cultural climate in which he operated during his late twenties and early thirties. The author has created a narrative that will serve as an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding of Smith's life.
After carefully reading this massive book of almost nine hundred pages of text, I have identified several areas that I feel are important to critique. In doing this, I frankly admit that Vogel’s mastery of the material is daunting. His research is quite well done and his knowledge of restoration history far surpasses mine. In taking a critical approach to reviewing Charisma Under Pressure, this evaluation will closely examine the book's limitations and areas that warrant further consideration. By scrutinizing the work with an eye for constructive analysis, I aim to engage in a thoughtful exploration of its potential shortcomings and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse surrounding the subject matter.
In Vogel’s introspective preface, he sets out his view that the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham are forgeries, but that Smith himself might have believed he was an inspired prophet, despite his knowing use of deception. Vogel then places Smith in the framework of charisma--that of both the leader and the follower (without whose approbation the leader would not succeed). Vogel devotes a scant two pages in his introduction to testimonials of Smith’s followers supporting the definition of a charismatic leader—that he was handsome, had a gleaming countenance and a light within. He was described as angelic, powerful, genial, prophetic, and electrifying. Several accounts describe Smith’s native eloquence in speaking, and Vogel concedes his physical prowess.
With such a title and background, an unsuspecting reader might think that the book would explore Joseph Smith’s charismatic character and why he had such influence on his followers. Such a book might answer the question of why, if Joseph Smith were a fraud, his adherents were willing to follow him across miles of country and ideological landscape. But Vogel, grimly immune to Joseph’s charms, continually points out his flaws. The author attributes Smith’s appeal to narcissism and exploitation rather than charisma. Chapter after chapter, the reader is left to wonder why his followers remained faithful to him; indeed, one might question why the Prophet had any followers at all.
On any occasion that a testimony might approach approval of or attraction to Smith, it is immediately followed by a sharp critique. For example, on p. 316, Vogel quotes Mary Beaman Noble as saying that Smith’s preaching sounded “so glorious” and she “realized it was the truth of heaven.” He quickly follows this with a more lengthy published description of the same sermon, calling Smith an “impudent ignoramus,” with “dull” eyes, “ungainly” manner, and “presumptuous impiety.” This critical lens is applied even to significant works, such as Smith's epistle to the Church from Liberty Jail (now D&C 121), where Vogel acknowledges the letter's charisma but strongly critiques its content. Vogel accuses Smith himself of being the one covering up his sins, exercising unrighteous dominion, and enforcing it through the Danites. “The letter slips into the consoling voice of Deity as Smith attempted to cast himself as the persecuted and ultimately triumphant hero and the dissenters as villains,” Vogel scolds. “Smith gave no indication that he was willing to accept responsibility for running the Church into the ditch” (859-860). While Vogel's emphasis on Smith's flaws may be valid, it leaves the reader craving a deeper exploration of Smith's appeal.
Of all the Joseph Smith biographies I have read, this one gives the least sense of Joseph’s personal charisma. Instead, the book focuses on a theory, based on the writings of Max Weber, that a church based on charisma (such as Smith’s original calling by an angel) can only survive if the founder “stabilizes the erratic aspects of charisma,” “thwarts challenges,” and “institutionalizes charisma.” Vogel has determined to demonstrate how Smith did just that.
“The first reconstitution of Smith’s charisma happened in 1834 and 1835,” Vogel explains, “when he enhanced his image, with the help of colleague Oliver Cowdery, as a charismatic personage and imparted legitimacy by introducing a new narrative of angelic ordinations.” At the same time, Smith established a hierarchy under him “that stratified and centralized authority.” Vogel posits a second reconstitution in 1838, when Smith began an official history obscuring his early treasure-seeking and participation in folk magic. “In so doing, Smith was not only defending his reputation, he was reconstituting his charisma through a story that would be more appealing to the wider culture, thus attracting more converts and thereby expanding his charismatic authority.”
Indeed, Vogel’s premise embellishes Smith’s lack of charisma and his increasing failure as a leader, which necessitates efforts to bolster his dwindling power and authority. In developing this theme, Vogel editorializes, often questioning the inspiration behind Smith’s actions, even when no one else at the time is doing so. On page 136, after describing a revelation reassigning William McLellin to a different field of missionary labor, Vogel cynically comments, “Apparently, at this time, no one questioned that such a quick reversal could be considered as inconsistent with God’s omniscience.” Regarding the Kirtland Temple, he enumerates architectural weaknesses, then remarks that “design flaws raise the question of how much of the inspired construction was left up to interpretation” (223).
Editing issues are apparent throughout the book, with numerous spelling and grammatical errors, misplaced tenses and repetitive sections. In a book this large, culling of repetition would have been helpful. Furthermore, as a documentary history, it aims to include every pertinent document from the period, resulting in a dry and tedious narrative at times. The book's lack of charisma itself makes it challenging for the average reader to stay engaged throughout its 890 pages. However, there are compelling moments, such as the story of Zion’s Camp on pages 337-370. This was my favorite part, presenting as it did Joseph Smith’s quirky nature and tender relationship with his followers.
I have another small issue with Vogel's frequent use of the word "anachronistic." An example of anachronism is when something from a later time period is mentioned in an earlier document. For instance, if a document from 1844 talked about a car model from 1964, that would be anachronistic because the car didn't exist back then. The people who wrote the 1844 document couldn't have known about the car or caused it to appear in the future. When Dan claims that Joseph Smith's 1838 account of an angel named Moroni telling him that the gold plates contained the teachings of Jesus to ancient people is anachronistic because the idea of Jesus visiting ancient America came later, he is incorrect. If Smith had truly been visited by an angel, the being would have known what was on the plates he was delivering. If the story was made up by Smith and he created the plates himself, he could have predicted Jesus' visit and written about it later without it being considered anachronistic. Vogel uses the word "anachronism" twelve times in his book, many of them in an unwarranted fashion.
For many years, Dan Vogel has been forwarding the narrative of continuing development of Mormon doctrine. This is based on impeccable research and reasoning as seen in his articles such as “The Earliest Mormon Concept of God,” “Evolution of Early Mormon Priesthood Narratives,” and his numerous YouTube videos. In this biography he puts this analysis together in one place and it is here that the book will make the greatest impact. I believe every Mormon studies scholar and enthusiast should become conversant with Vogel’s discussion of modalism in the Book of Mormon (“where Jesus is both the Father and the Son”), revised modalism in the Articles of Faith, how the First Vision accounts fit in to the changing narrative between 1835 and 1844, and the dating of angelic priesthood ordination stories (by John the Baptist and by Peter, James, and John). Some scholars do not agree with Vogel’s analysis, but thus far his work has not been strongly rebutted.
However, caution should be exercised in accepting Vogel's conclusions regarding changes in Smith's narratives and the motivations behind them. The attribution of these changes to Smith's diminishing charisma may oversimplify the complex historical context. For example, due to the paucity of reports of Joseph Smith’s sermons or teachings in the early years, we cannot be sure that he never told the story of his First Vision until 1832. In fact, Vogel dismisses possible evidence that may show that Joseph recounted his First Vision story earlier by saying that the witness’s memories “may have been tainted by what he later learned” (p. 106).
Similarly, I urge caution in making conclusive statements critiquing Smith’s claim that he was ordained to both the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods by angels. The introduction of the angelic ordination story, Vogel explains, was engineered by Oliver Cowdery in 1829 to “enhance Smith’s leadership,” reduce the possibility of schism and “raise Cowdery to prominence as a co-receiver of special authority” (384). I believe that evidence for this motivation is slim.
In conclusion, Dan Vogel’s biography of Joseph Smith’s middle years is a stellar accomplishment. Few living historians other than Dan could have written it. His extensive research, impressive knowledge, and critical analysis make this biography an essential resource for researchers, critics, and devotees. While the book offers a thorough exploration of the existing contemporary documents on Smith’s life, it is not without its limitations. Vogel's critical approach towards Smith's character and leadership style, focusing more on flaws and exploitation, may leave readers without an understanding of Smith’s personal charisma or positive contributions. The author's relentless scrutiny of Smith's actions and motives may raise questions about the impartiality of the analysis. While the book's dense nature and critical focus may present challenges, its insights into the evolution of Mormon doctrine and the complexities of Joseph Smith's leadership make it a significant and thought-provoking addition to the field.
After carefully reading this massive book of almost nine hundred pages of text, I have identified several areas that I feel are important to critique. In doing this, I frankly admit that Vogel’s mastery of the material is daunting. His research is quite well done and his knowledge of restoration history far surpasses mine. In taking a critical approach to reviewing Charisma Under Pressure, this evaluation will closely examine the book's limitations and areas that warrant further consideration. By scrutinizing the work with an eye for constructive analysis, I aim to engage in a thoughtful exploration of its potential shortcomings and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse surrounding the subject matter.
In Vogel’s introspective preface, he sets out his view that the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham are forgeries, but that Smith himself might have believed he was an inspired prophet, despite his knowing use of deception. Vogel then places Smith in the framework of charisma--that of both the leader and the follower (without whose approbation the leader would not succeed). Vogel devotes a scant two pages in his introduction to testimonials of Smith’s followers supporting the definition of a charismatic leader—that he was handsome, had a gleaming countenance and a light within. He was described as angelic, powerful, genial, prophetic, and electrifying. Several accounts describe Smith’s native eloquence in speaking, and Vogel concedes his physical prowess.
With such a title and background, an unsuspecting reader might think that the book would explore Joseph Smith’s charismatic character and why he had such influence on his followers. Such a book might answer the question of why, if Joseph Smith were a fraud, his adherents were willing to follow him across miles of country and ideological landscape. But Vogel, grimly immune to Joseph’s charms, continually points out his flaws. The author attributes Smith’s appeal to narcissism and exploitation rather than charisma. Chapter after chapter, the reader is left to wonder why his followers remained faithful to him; indeed, one might question why the Prophet had any followers at all.
On any occasion that a testimony might approach approval of or attraction to Smith, it is immediately followed by a sharp critique. For example, on p. 316, Vogel quotes Mary Beaman Noble as saying that Smith’s preaching sounded “so glorious” and she “realized it was the truth of heaven.” He quickly follows this with a more lengthy published description of the same sermon, calling Smith an “impudent ignoramus,” with “dull” eyes, “ungainly” manner, and “presumptuous impiety.” This critical lens is applied even to significant works, such as Smith's epistle to the Church from Liberty Jail (now D&C 121), where Vogel acknowledges the letter's charisma but strongly critiques its content. Vogel accuses Smith himself of being the one covering up his sins, exercising unrighteous dominion, and enforcing it through the Danites. “The letter slips into the consoling voice of Deity as Smith attempted to cast himself as the persecuted and ultimately triumphant hero and the dissenters as villains,” Vogel scolds. “Smith gave no indication that he was willing to accept responsibility for running the Church into the ditch” (859-860). While Vogel's emphasis on Smith's flaws may be valid, it leaves the reader craving a deeper exploration of Smith's appeal.
Of all the Joseph Smith biographies I have read, this one gives the least sense of Joseph’s personal charisma. Instead, the book focuses on a theory, based on the writings of Max Weber, that a church based on charisma (such as Smith’s original calling by an angel) can only survive if the founder “stabilizes the erratic aspects of charisma,” “thwarts challenges,” and “institutionalizes charisma.” Vogel has determined to demonstrate how Smith did just that.
“The first reconstitution of Smith’s charisma happened in 1834 and 1835,” Vogel explains, “when he enhanced his image, with the help of colleague Oliver Cowdery, as a charismatic personage and imparted legitimacy by introducing a new narrative of angelic ordinations.” At the same time, Smith established a hierarchy under him “that stratified and centralized authority.” Vogel posits a second reconstitution in 1838, when Smith began an official history obscuring his early treasure-seeking and participation in folk magic. “In so doing, Smith was not only defending his reputation, he was reconstituting his charisma through a story that would be more appealing to the wider culture, thus attracting more converts and thereby expanding his charismatic authority.”
Indeed, Vogel’s premise embellishes Smith’s lack of charisma and his increasing failure as a leader, which necessitates efforts to bolster his dwindling power and authority. In developing this theme, Vogel editorializes, often questioning the inspiration behind Smith’s actions, even when no one else at the time is doing so. On page 136, after describing a revelation reassigning William McLellin to a different field of missionary labor, Vogel cynically comments, “Apparently, at this time, no one questioned that such a quick reversal could be considered as inconsistent with God’s omniscience.” Regarding the Kirtland Temple, he enumerates architectural weaknesses, then remarks that “design flaws raise the question of how much of the inspired construction was left up to interpretation” (223).
Editing issues are apparent throughout the book, with numerous spelling and grammatical errors, misplaced tenses and repetitive sections. In a book this large, culling of repetition would have been helpful. Furthermore, as a documentary history, it aims to include every pertinent document from the period, resulting in a dry and tedious narrative at times. The book's lack of charisma itself makes it challenging for the average reader to stay engaged throughout its 890 pages. However, there are compelling moments, such as the story of Zion’s Camp on pages 337-370. This was my favorite part, presenting as it did Joseph Smith’s quirky nature and tender relationship with his followers.
I have another small issue with Vogel's frequent use of the word "anachronistic." An example of anachronism is when something from a later time period is mentioned in an earlier document. For instance, if a document from 1844 talked about a car model from 1964, that would be anachronistic because the car didn't exist back then. The people who wrote the 1844 document couldn't have known about the car or caused it to appear in the future. When Dan claims that Joseph Smith's 1838 account of an angel named Moroni telling him that the gold plates contained the teachings of Jesus to ancient people is anachronistic because the idea of Jesus visiting ancient America came later, he is incorrect. If Smith had truly been visited by an angel, the being would have known what was on the plates he was delivering. If the story was made up by Smith and he created the plates himself, he could have predicted Jesus' visit and written about it later without it being considered anachronistic. Vogel uses the word "anachronism" twelve times in his book, many of them in an unwarranted fashion.
For many years, Dan Vogel has been forwarding the narrative of continuing development of Mormon doctrine. This is based on impeccable research and reasoning as seen in his articles such as “The Earliest Mormon Concept of God,” “Evolution of Early Mormon Priesthood Narratives,” and his numerous YouTube videos. In this biography he puts this analysis together in one place and it is here that the book will make the greatest impact. I believe every Mormon studies scholar and enthusiast should become conversant with Vogel’s discussion of modalism in the Book of Mormon (“where Jesus is both the Father and the Son”), revised modalism in the Articles of Faith, how the First Vision accounts fit in to the changing narrative between 1835 and 1844, and the dating of angelic priesthood ordination stories (by John the Baptist and by Peter, James, and John). Some scholars do not agree with Vogel’s analysis, but thus far his work has not been strongly rebutted.
However, caution should be exercised in accepting Vogel's conclusions regarding changes in Smith's narratives and the motivations behind them. The attribution of these changes to Smith's diminishing charisma may oversimplify the complex historical context. For example, due to the paucity of reports of Joseph Smith’s sermons or teachings in the early years, we cannot be sure that he never told the story of his First Vision until 1832. In fact, Vogel dismisses possible evidence that may show that Joseph recounted his First Vision story earlier by saying that the witness’s memories “may have been tainted by what he later learned” (p. 106).
Similarly, I urge caution in making conclusive statements critiquing Smith’s claim that he was ordained to both the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods by angels. The introduction of the angelic ordination story, Vogel explains, was engineered by Oliver Cowdery in 1829 to “enhance Smith’s leadership,” reduce the possibility of schism and “raise Cowdery to prominence as a co-receiver of special authority” (384). I believe that evidence for this motivation is slim.
In conclusion, Dan Vogel’s biography of Joseph Smith’s middle years is a stellar accomplishment. Few living historians other than Dan could have written it. His extensive research, impressive knowledge, and critical analysis make this biography an essential resource for researchers, critics, and devotees. While the book offers a thorough exploration of the existing contemporary documents on Smith’s life, it is not without its limitations. Vogel's critical approach towards Smith's character and leadership style, focusing more on flaws and exploitation, may leave readers without an understanding of Smith’s personal charisma or positive contributions. The author's relentless scrutiny of Smith's actions and motives may raise questions about the impartiality of the analysis. While the book's dense nature and critical focus may present challenges, its insights into the evolution of Mormon doctrine and the complexities of Joseph Smith's leadership make it a significant and thought-provoking addition to the field.
August 9, 2023
“Joseph Smith announced that the end of the world was near, that Christ’s second coming was imminent, and that he had been called by God to establish a New Jerusalem near the western border of the United States, where believers would gather to escape the wars and plagues about to sweep the wicked from the earth and live God’s law in perfect harmony and peace.”
With a stirring thumbnail sketch like that, one might expect Dan Vogel’s new biography of Mormon prophet Joseph Smith to be a riveting narrative. At times it is. However, much more of the time Charisma under Pressure: Joseph Smith, American Prophet, 1831-1839 is a dry and exhaustive detailing of the business, real estate, and political life of an emerging institutional religious leader. This is much less a tale of a quirky visionary farm boy and much more of a corporate leadership profile. Makes perfect sense given the years being covered.
All the big Restoration events of Kirtland and Missouri are related: the building and dedication of the first temple, the colossal failure of the Zion’s Camp march, the Banking Scandal, the Battle of Crooked River, and the brutal stay in Liberty Jail. There are fascinating analyses of the evolving depictions of the First Vision and Godhead, as well as the published mixups regarding who the original angel was for revealing The Book of Mormon: Nephi or Moroni?
Charisma under Pressure is an exemplification of the thorough, even sprawling, biographies that are possible now with the Joseph Smith Papers publicly available. Still, as a comparatively casual student of Joseph Smith’s life, ministry, and reign, I find past biographies more approachable and useful in achieving a sense of connection to the man. That said, the scale and depth of Dan Vogel’s research is awe-inspiring. I especially found his treatment of the late Missouri period appropriately horrifying and heartbreaking. In our current climate, the Missouri period could be a cautionary tale for all Americans. Highly recommended for serious, established students of Mormon history.
April 23, 2025
Dan Vogel’s Charisma under Pressure is a meticulously researched and compellingly written exploration of one of the most dynamic and controversial figures in American religious history. Focusing on the pivotal years from 1831 to 1839, Vogel presents a nuanced and critical portrait of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, during the formative and turbulent years of his prophetic career.
What stands out immediately is the depth of scholarship. Vogel draws from a rich tapestry of primary sources—letters, diaries, church records, and contemporary reports—to trace not only the public actions of Joseph Smith but also the psychological and social pressures that shaped his evolving leadership. This is not hagiography nor is it a hit piece; instead, Vogel strikes a rare balance: a critical yet empathetic analysis of Smith as both a charismatic leader and a man navigating intense personal and communal challenges.
The book's title is apt—Charisma under Pressure—as Vogel explores how Smith’s religious authority was both constructed and tested amid internal schisms, external persecutions, and his own expanding theological innovations. The narrative captures the complexity of Smith's personality and leadership style, particularly in Kirtland and Missouri, offering readers a portrait of a man deeply convinced of his divine calling, yet frequently improvising in the face of opposition and failure.
Vogel’s prose is clear and engaging, making even dense historical material accessible without sacrificing scholarly rigor. His interpretations are grounded in evidence, and while he is not shy about offering critical insights, he resists the temptation to simplify or sensationalize.
This volume will be of great interest to historians of American religion, students of Mormonism, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of charisma, belief, and leadership under fire. Charisma under Pressure not only enriches our understanding of Joseph Smith but also deepens our grasp of how religious movements survive—and sometimes thrive—amid crisis.
Verdict: A masterful contribution to Mormon studies and a model of responsible, insightful historical writing.
What stands out immediately is the depth of scholarship. Vogel draws from a rich tapestry of primary sources—letters, diaries, church records, and contemporary reports—to trace not only the public actions of Joseph Smith but also the psychological and social pressures that shaped his evolving leadership. This is not hagiography nor is it a hit piece; instead, Vogel strikes a rare balance: a critical yet empathetic analysis of Smith as both a charismatic leader and a man navigating intense personal and communal challenges.
The book's title is apt—Charisma under Pressure—as Vogel explores how Smith’s religious authority was both constructed and tested amid internal schisms, external persecutions, and his own expanding theological innovations. The narrative captures the complexity of Smith's personality and leadership style, particularly in Kirtland and Missouri, offering readers a portrait of a man deeply convinced of his divine calling, yet frequently improvising in the face of opposition and failure.
Vogel’s prose is clear and engaging, making even dense historical material accessible without sacrificing scholarly rigor. His interpretations are grounded in evidence, and while he is not shy about offering critical insights, he resists the temptation to simplify or sensationalize.
This volume will be of great interest to historians of American religion, students of Mormonism, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of charisma, belief, and leadership under fire. Charisma under Pressure not only enriches our understanding of Joseph Smith but also deepens our grasp of how religious movements survive—and sometimes thrive—amid crisis.
Verdict: A masterful contribution to Mormon studies and a model of responsible, insightful historical writing.
June 3, 2025
Historicity and quality of research: 5/5 (maybe even 6/5)
Readability: 3.25/5
Vogel’s command of the source documents and related research is truly impressive and I often found myself spending as much time in the footnotes as in the body. He is meticulous to the point of even noting such details as the fact that a petition from Joseph was likely received by a secondary judge who was sitting in for the primary judge who was taking a leave of absence.
However, I did find myself getting bogged down by the flood of dates, names, and details. The actual narrative was, at times, difficult to follow, particularly for some of the earlier chapters that don’t proceed strictly chronologically. This is to say that I, as a layperson, am probably not the target demographic for this particular book; I imagine the ideal reader is a scholar for whom this will prove an invaluable resource.
My other gripe is that the titular premise of Joseph Smith as a Weberian Charismatic Authority isn’t presented very strongly. Vogel opens with a strong assessment in the introduction and then recaps with a couple paragraphs on the epilogue, but the comparisons in the body of the work feel forced or like an afterthought. I would have loved a little deeper dive into Weber’s theories and stronger connections to Joseph Smith in this do-or-die decade for Mormonism.
Readability: 3.25/5
Vogel’s command of the source documents and related research is truly impressive and I often found myself spending as much time in the footnotes as in the body. He is meticulous to the point of even noting such details as the fact that a petition from Joseph was likely received by a secondary judge who was sitting in for the primary judge who was taking a leave of absence.
However, I did find myself getting bogged down by the flood of dates, names, and details. The actual narrative was, at times, difficult to follow, particularly for some of the earlier chapters that don’t proceed strictly chronologically. This is to say that I, as a layperson, am probably not the target demographic for this particular book; I imagine the ideal reader is a scholar for whom this will prove an invaluable resource.
My other gripe is that the titular premise of Joseph Smith as a Weberian Charismatic Authority isn’t presented very strongly. Vogel opens with a strong assessment in the introduction and then recaps with a couple paragraphs on the epilogue, but the comparisons in the body of the work feel forced or like an afterthought. I would have loved a little deeper dive into Weber’s theories and stronger connections to Joseph Smith in this do-or-die decade for Mormonism.
January 2, 2024
I feel cheated
Excellent Scholarship.
However, a volume II through the end of Joseph Smith’s life with an evidentiary jurisprudence approach exhaustively examining all plausible assassins, coconspirators, assassination conspiracy groups/(religious & political both inside & outside of church membership) and associative
co-motivational scheme/s leading to the murder of Joseph Smith (include a comparative plausibility matrix for each assassination theory) is a must … as grievances against JS were numerous, it will be difficult/impossible to reach a definitive conclusion/verdict. In lieu of a verdict, the most verifiable theories of who murdered JS & the motivation/s driving the assassination must suffice.
Excellent Scholarship.
However, a volume II through the end of Joseph Smith’s life with an evidentiary jurisprudence approach exhaustively examining all plausible assassins, coconspirators, assassination conspiracy groups/(religious & political both inside & outside of church membership) and associative
co-motivational scheme/s leading to the murder of Joseph Smith (include a comparative plausibility matrix for each assassination theory) is a must … as grievances against JS were numerous, it will be difficult/impossible to reach a definitive conclusion/verdict. In lieu of a verdict, the most verifiable theories of who murdered JS & the motivation/s driving the assassination must suffice.
April 21, 2024
Even though it's a long read, I finished it in three days.
What I didn't like: Some parts describe mundane events in Smith's life that didn't add anything to the book. I mostly skimmed over these sections.
What I liked: Many details about how and why Smith did all his shecoonery are excellent. Vogel's commentary was sparse so the reader could draw their own conclusions on the material. The sections on the two Mormon conflicts in Missouri were especially good.
Overall, this was a meticulously researched, unbiased book. I've read a great deal about Mormon history yet I still learned a lot from this book, so it gets a 5 star rating.
What I didn't like: Some parts describe mundane events in Smith's life that didn't add anything to the book. I mostly skimmed over these sections.
What I liked: Many details about how and why Smith did all his shecoonery are excellent. Vogel's commentary was sparse so the reader could draw their own conclusions on the material. The sections on the two Mormon conflicts in Missouri were especially good.
Overall, this was a meticulously researched, unbiased book. I've read a great deal about Mormon history yet I still learned a lot from this book, so it gets a 5 star rating.
October 5, 2023
"Smith's charisma was such that he could inspire followers to continue to sacrifice despite clear evidence that his spiritual gift was fallible, much as he had done as a treasure seer in his youth. Whether treasure or the New Jerusalem, the more his followers were invested, the harder it was for them to abandon faith in obtaining the prize."
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews