The Drama of Dissent

Book excerpt: This study examines the complex relationship between theological conviction and artistic expression among a diverse group of religious dissidents. Kendall argues that there existed a distinctly radical tradition of dissent poetics whose presence may be discerned among the popularizers of Wycliffite ideas, the Edwardian hot gospelers, and the Elizabethan Puritans. These religious reformers challenged the mainstream of literary thought in the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. Originally published in 1986. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.