The Religious Press in Britain, 1760-1900

by Josef L. Altholz

Religion played a very special role in the life of nineteenth-century Britain. This period saw the last great revival of religion, which shaped the pattern of attitudes and behavior we now call Victorian. The religious periodical press was the preeminent medium of communication on all subjects in the nineteenth century and is the best primary source for the study of religion. In this first systematic and comprehensive treatment of nineteenth-century British religious journalism, the more important or representative periodicals are identified and assigned to their respective denominations or movements.

The Religious Press in Britain begins with a general introduction to the religious press and an overview of its development from the eighteenth to the twentieth century. The press is studied in detail in narrative form under the headings of denominations or religious tendencies. Chapters focus on general movements (for example, temperance) or specialties (for example, children's periodicals). There is a brief general conclusion. Of particular importance is an index of the religious periodicals mentioned in the work, cross-referenced to movements and dates. This in-depth study is a valuable resource for the study of modern British history, religious history, and Victorian literature.

225 pages, Hardcover

First published September 27, 1989