John Bunyan and the Language of Conviction

Book excerpt: Bunyan's works re-evaluated, and considered in their Restoration and non-conformist context. This book undertakes a major reassessment of the works of John Bunyan [1628-88], the nonconformist author of The Pilgrim's Progress, who was imprisoned for preaching his beliefs. Through a reading of each of his narratives, and many of his pastoral writings, both in textual detail and in relation to the various traditions - such as Reformed spirituality and the nonconformist trial - within which he lived, preached, and wrote, the author offers a systematic re-evaluation of Bunyan's development as an author. She presents new perspectives on his most popular works, Grace Abounding and The Pilgrim's Progress, whilst arguing that the significance of the lesser-known Life and Death of Mr Badman and The Holy War has been severely underestimated; and she shows how overall the works offer a candid document of nonconformist experience in the Restoration period.