Amazing Grace
A Cultural History of the Beloved Hymn
$29.08
- Hardcover
216 pages
- Release Date
29 November 2023
Summary
A fascinating journey through the history of “Amazing Grace,” one of the transatlantic world’s most popular hymns and a powerful anthem for humanity.
Sung in moments of personal isolation or on state occasions watched by millions, “Amazing Grace” has become an unparalleled anthem for humankind. How did a simple Christian hymn, written in a remote English vicarage in 1772, come to hold such sway over millions in all corners of the modern world? With this short, engaging cultural histor…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9780520391826 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 0520391829 |
| Author: | James Walvin |
| Publisher: | University of California Press |
| Imprint: | University of California Press |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages: | 216 |
| Release Date: | 29 November 2023 |
| Weight: | 363g |
| Dimensions: | 23mm x 140mm x 210mm |
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Critics Review
“A solid and well-researched effort about this famous, often-sung song.” * Library Journal *
“His affection for his subject is contagious and his engagement comprehensive, and his account is full of fascinating detail.” * Wall Street Journal *
“Walvin’s book is a testament to his excellence as a historian… . [He] gives us a meaningful survey of a beloved hymn that is well worth the reader’s time. It would be of interest especially for those curious about the confluence of history, social change and religion… . Amazing Grace delivers an insightful look at the perennial appeal of a cherished classic.” * National Catholic Reporter *
“A short but fascinating book.” * The Economist *
“The author’s research and writing are powerful and compelling. If you’re interested in musical history, religion, and both the human and American experience, Amazing Grace sums up much of our complex, ever-evolving story.” * 1776Books.net *
“A compelling story of a hymn rescued from the horror of slavery to become ‘a bold assertion for humanity’—a song about forgiveness that ends up travelling its own arc of redemption. Indeed, in the author’s hands, “Amazing Grace” lands firmly on the right side of history.” * Times Literary Supplement *
“It’s a nice story and it is nicely told by John Walvin” * The Interim *
“Walvin’s succinct and lucid cultural history explains how it is that a hymn — first penned in a small rural village in 18th-century England, by a former slave-ship captain no less — could come to have such universal familiarity… . Engrossing.” * Post and Courier *
“A short but fascinating book.” * Economist *
“Strong, accessible, and engaging.” * Folk Music Journal *
“This elegantly written book will appeal to diverse audiences.” * Family and Community Historical Research Society Newsletter *
James Walvin
James Walvin is Professor of History Emeritus at the University of York. He has published widely on slavery and modern social history. His most recent book is A World Transformed: Slavery in the Americas and the Origins of Global Power.
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