Date of Award

Spring 2018

Thesis Type

Rollins Access Only

Degree Name

Honors Bachelor of Arts

Department

English

Sponsor

Dr. Mathew Forsythe

Committee Member

Dr. Jana Mathews

Committee Member

Dr. Vidhu Aggarwal

Abstract

Modern Mysticism provides diverse stories, including tales of realism, fable, and dystopian societies, all of which are connected through recurring Christian symbolism. Considering the historical and cultural perspectives of religion, the stories were produced after interviewing individuals from the southern US. In spite of their similar Christian upbringings, these individuals held diverse religious beliefs. Modern Mysticism utilizes conventions of creative writing, like frame and manipulation of the grotesque, to demonstrate how life experiences shift religious perspective. One’s religious upbringing impacts how they view the world, but our attitudes towards religion are shaped by our own social positions and our peer groups. In this way, religion is malleable to our own views, which allows for varied belief systems among individuals of similar backgrounds and supports unique justifications for those beliefs. The result is a continuum of ever-changing religious practices and spiritual experiences, thereby creating countless opportunities for self-exploration and, thus, endless stories and narratives.

Rights Holder

Morgan McConnell

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