A narrative history of Oxford Movement, whereby a group of Anglican intellectuals, notably Newman, Pusey, Keble and Froude, attempted to restore to the Victorian Church of England the character of primitive Christianity. Many of the inherent principles, such as Apostolic Succession, were seen to be exemplified by the Catholic Church.
This interesting study examines the founding of the Oxford Movement in the context of the agrarian riots and the great Reform Act of 1832. O'Connell posits a greater degree of continuity within the Anglican High Church than many other historians would allow, but his explanations of the intricacies of English evangelicalism are useful, especially for those more familiar with American religious history. However, readers should be aware of the author's bias against Newman and not take his interpretations as the final word on the subject.