Lectures On The Pilgrim's Progress, And On The Life And Times Of John Bunyan

by George Barrell Cheever

Lectures On The Pilgrim's Progress, And On The Life And Times Of John Bunyan by George Barrell Cheever. Cheever's lectures present a biographical and interpretive study of John Bunyan, tracing not only Bunyan’s life and the historical era in which he wrote and preached, but also the providence, grace, and genius that shape the Pilgrim's Progress. The volume combines biographical sketches, discussions of Bunyan's temptations, imprisonment, and ministerial calling with a close reading of the Allegory's themes, characters, and scenes. It surveys Bunyan's times—Civil War turbulence, Restoration oppression, and religious liberty—before turning to Bunyan's life, conversion, and the writing of the Pilgrim's Progress. The author emphasizes the unity of Scripture, the power of the gospel, and the deep, experiential knowledge that undergirds Bunyan’s language and imagery. Originally published in 1846, the work frames Bunyan as a master of allegory and a major contributor to English religious literature, whose Pilgrim’s Progress remains a landmark of Christian devotion and literary achievement.

204 pages, Paperback

First published September 21, 2009

About the author

1807-1890

Reviews

[Timothy Crockett]

This book was a gift and if weren't for that I may have never heard of it let alone read it. It is a welcome addition to my library.
 
A great follow up to the Pilgrim's progress. The historical and biographical sections were excellent. I think all to often when we read of the great men and women of the faith, we often overlook the historical and cultural settings of the day. The author gives and excellent summation of the times, including prison life. The author dealt with the many struggles Bunyan had which goes a long way in explaining the motivation behind his greatest work - Pilgrim's Progress.

The remainder of the book goes over the journey of Pilgrim giving details and background to some of the places and people that Pilgrim met along the way.

The book was just over 220 pages and would certainly make a great addition to anyone's library.